(CNN) — , whose role in boxing movie is marking a dramatic turn in his acting career, has said he felt “pigeon-holed” as a blockbuster star.

The former WWE wrestler – who is known for portraying charismatic and athletic characters in high-octane action movies such as the “Fast & Furious” film franchise, “San Andreas” and “Skyscraper” – takes on the role of a much more nuanced character, MMA and UFC fighter Mark Kerr, in his latest film.

The real-life Kerr was the subject of a 2002 HBO documentary that chronicled his substance abuse and explored the brutality of the sport to which he had dedicated his life.

Johnson cried as “The Smashing Machine” received a 15-minute standing ovation at the world premiere of the movie at the 82nd Venice Film Festival in Venice, Italy, on Monday night.

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