Sydney Sweeney’s Stunning Transformation as Boxer Christy Martin for Upcoming Biopic
Sydney Sweeney is gearing up for her most intense role yet, stepping into the ring to portray American boxing legend Christy Martin in a forthcoming biopic directed by David Michôd. Known for her roles in Euphoria and The White Lotus, Sweeney is pushing her limits, physically and emotionally, to bring Martin’s tumultuous life to the big screen.
Christy Martin, hailed as a trailblazer in women’s boxing during the 1990s, became a symbol of resilience both in and out of the ring. Her remarkable rise to fame included groundbreaking moments, such as being the first woman to sign with the legendary promoter Don King and becoming the only female boxer to appear on the cover of Sports Illustrated. However, Martin’s success was overshadowed by a deeply abusive relationship with her husband and former manager, James Martin, who attempted to kill her in 2010. Christy miraculously survived being stabbed and shot, and has since become a prominent figure in the sport, turning her experiences into a story of survival and strength.
Sweeney, who shared her physical transformation on Instagram, revealed that she has undergone intense training to authentically portray Martin, including rigorous boxing workouts that have honed her muscular physique. “Over the past few months, I’ve been immersed in training to bring to life the story of an incredible woman—a true champion who fought battles both inside and outside the ring,” Sweeney wrote. In a nod to her love for the sport, Sweeney added that she has a personal history with combat sports, having trained in kickboxing and grappling from ages 12 to 19.
The biopic, which is still untitled, focuses on the highs and lows of Martin’s career, capturing both her championship triumphs and personal demons. Martin’s story is not just about her boxing prowess, but also her resilience in overcoming the trauma she experienced in her marriage. James Martin was convicted of attempted second-degree murder in 2012 and is currently serving a 25-year prison sentence.
Directed by Michôd, known for his work on Animal Kingdom, the film promises to be an emotionally charged narrative that brings to light the darker side of fame and domestic abuse. Michôd explained his connection to the story, stating, “I have a history of making movies about damaged men and I’d been wanting to make a film about a woman with a ferocious energy inside her… Her ferocity is intelligible and justifiable, and audiences will crave it because of the circumstances she was forced to endure.”
In addition to Sweeney, the film boasts a talented cast that includes Ben Foster, who will portray James Martin, Merritt Wever, Katy O’Brian, Ethan Embry, Jess Gabor, and Chad L. Coleman. The project has been filming in North Carolina since September 2024, with an official release date still to be announced.
Martin, now 56, continues to be an influential figure in the world of boxing. She is married to her former rival, Lisa Holewyne, and is the CEO of Christy Martin Promotions, an organization that sponsors boxing events throughout the southern United States. Her legacy extends beyond the ring, having inspired a generation of female athletes to break down barriers in a male-dominated sport.
The upcoming biopic is expected to bring fresh attention to Martin’s remarkable life, following the success of the 2021 Netflix documentary Untold: Deal with the Devil, which chronicled her career and near-death experience.
Sweeney’s commitment to portraying Martin authentically, coupled with her dedication to training for the role, suggests that this film will be a gripping tribute to one of boxing’s most extraordinary figures. As Sweeney transforms into the “female Rocky,” fans and audiences alike are eager to see how the actress will embody Martin’s indomitable spirit in a film that promises to deliver a knockout.