Rumors that Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson shed 60 pounds after quitting steroids are false, according to his rep — the former WWE superstar slimmed down for his latest movie role.
Speculation spread online after Johnson appeared noticeably thinner at a promotional event for The Smashing Machine, sparking whispers that he had abandoned performance enhancers.
Johnson’s rep clarified that the actor lost 60 pounds intentionally to portray UFC heavyweight champion Mark Kerr, the fighter nicknamed “The Smashing Machine.”
Kerr, now 56, revealed in 2019 that he suffers from peripheral neuropathy, a condition that damages nerves and affects strength and coordination. Johnson shed the bulk to more accurately reflect Kerr’s look during his fighting days.
#DwayneJohnson aka The Rock has lost a staggering 60lbs and is looking very slim. 🧐 pic.twitter.com/0VHQztsASQ
— Made In The USA. (RED) (@American_Made41) September 1, 2025
Over the weekend, Johnson was photographed at an event looking slimmer than usual, fueling chatter among fans who are used to his famously muscular build.
Some even compared him to longtime friend Ronnie Coleman, the former Mr. Olympia who is now unable to walk after multiple back surgeries and years of extreme bodybuilding.
But Johnson quickly shut down the speculation. Appearing in Italy on Monday in a blue polo shirt and white slacks, he flexed for cameras, proving he hasn’t lost his trademark size and strength.
Johnson’s transformation is already paying off. The Smashing Machine premiered at the Venice Film Festival, where he received a 15-minute standing ovation.
Critics praised his dedication to the role. Writing for Deadline, Damon Wise said Johnson “owns the whole thing with his truly remarkable work as fighter Mark Kerr, disappearing so fully underneath Kazu Hiru’s astonishing prosthetics that the opening of the film looks genuinely like the real thing.”
8x Mr. Olympia Ronnie Coleman Unable to Walk After Years of Heavy Lifting and Botched Back Surgeries pic.twitter.com/7frqfkiALr
— TaraBull (@TaraBull808) July 20, 2025
