Dwayne ‘The Rock’ Johnson’s love affair with mixed martial arts continues.

The former WWE performer turned actor has taken a step back from the wrestling ring in recent times (save for special occasions, such as the lead-in to this year’s Wrestlemania) — but his time inside the ropes of ring took a new twist when it was confirmed that he was to star in a film documenting the life of the two-time UFC tournament winner Mark Kerr.

‘The Smashing Machine’, as the film is called, is due for release this coming October and details the life of the combat sports icon Kerr who was at one point considered by most to be the best pound-for-pound fighter in the world. Coming from a time when grounded knees and headbutts were permitted, Kerr began his career with an unbeaten record across his first 13 fights before a mixture of injuries and addictions cost him his time in the limelight.

And speaking to Pat McAfee, as noted by MMA Fighting, Johnson said that while the flick represents a departure from his usual blockbuster fare, this was a story that he felt needed to be told.

“I had been wanting for years now to chase the challenge and be inspired by the challenge,” he said.

“I love making the bigger blockbuster movies. They’re a lot of fun. They’re hard as shit to make, and a lot of people enjoy them, hopefully, knock on wood, around the world. But I wanted more. I wanted a challenge, and I just wanted the opportunity to disappear into something and disappear into a part and a role that would really challenge me in ways that I’ve never been challenged before.

“And on top of that, I know it sounds crazy, but to be nervous. In a way, you’re buzzy. ‘How am I going to do this? I don’t know how to do this?’”