Mark Kerr signs with Innovative Artists as Dwayne Johnson prepares to portray him in The Smashing Machine

Informants from various sports outlets have reported that the former wrestler and MMA standout Mark Kerr has signed a deal with Innovative Artists Entertainment for representation in a wide range of media and promotional opportunities. Kerr's story is now back in the limelight. A24 has gone into production with a biopic of Kerr, The Smashing Machine, with Dwayne Johnson portraying Kerr. Innovative artists will be responsible for representation for Kerr in the domains of acting, licensing, appearances, merchandising, endorsements, and speaking engagements. These multi-pronged commercial deals are becoming increasingly common for athletes whose life stories now find channels beyond the sports venue alone.Also Read: 'The Smashing Machine': Dwayne Johnson delves into the 4 hour makeup process for Mark Kerr biopicBy having a firm that can offer full representation behind him, Kerr has this opportunity to fully exploit his legacy, the general upswing in interest in his life, and the exposure of the forthcoming film. The move comes at a strategic time. The Smashing Machine has just premiered at the Venice International Film Festival and is all abuzz. Directed by Benny Safdie, the film is a look at Kerr's life and legacy, including wrestling, MMA, and his personal tribulations. With the film set to be released theatrically, interest in Kerr as more than just an athlete but as a public figure has been rekindled, making this partnership with Innovative Artists very timely.Mark Kerr has a storied history. He's in the UFC Hall of Fame, he's been a champion at the ADCC several times, and was an NCAA-level wrestler. He also won two UFC heavyweight tournaments, one after another, while making history as a grappler. Much of his early '90s fame went to The Smashing Machine, a documentary on HBO, which documented his victories and defeats, his joys and sorrows.With his new representation, Kerr is set to establish his brand, sidelining actual fighting. Speaking engagements, acting, merchandising, or public appearances will all be avenues to spread his life story among the wider public. For all MMA and wrestling fans, this only means more content and presence around the giant Mark Kerr.It could give Mark Kerr a new thrust in his post-fighting life to capitalize on his own story while interest is peaking due to his signing with Innovative Artists. It appears that smart people, having gone through a lifetime of fighting and storytelling, would appreciate this moment- a film being released amid a blossoming media and branding presence.