Sydney Sweeney Captivates as Boxer Christy Martin in New Film

Sydney Sweeney stars as Christy Martin in the new biopic “Christy,” which explores the life of the iconic female boxer. The film, directed by David Michod, covers two decades of Martin’s journey both inside and outside the ring.

Sydney Sweeney as Christy Martin

In this powerful portrayal, Sweeney highlights Martin’s evolution from an amateur to one of the most successful female boxers of the 1990s. Martin, now 57, was renowned for her aggressive fighting style and was the first woman to sign with legendary promoter Don King.

Film Highlights

• The film showcases Martin’s challenges, victories, and personal life.
• It also depicts her complicated relationship with Jim Martin, her coach and husband, played by Ben Foster.
• The narrative addresses significant themes such as domestic violence and sexual identity.

Sweeney expressed that portraying Martin came with a sense of responsibility. She recognized the importance of Martin’s story and its potential impact on others. “It’s a really heavy weight to carry,” she stated at the film’s premiere at the London Film Festival on October 17, 2025.

Preparation and Transformation

To authentically represent Christy Martin, Sweeney dedicated three months to prepare for the role. She worked closely with a boxing coach, a weight trainer, and a nutritionist, resulting in a transformation that saw her gain 35 pounds (approximately 16 kg). Sweeney noted, “It was definitely a very intense physical transformation. But I felt so strong.”

Production Insight

Throughout filming, Sweeney remained deeply involved, visiting the set frequently. She mentioned experiencing realistic fight scenes, which led to a concussion during production. “I might have broken someone else’s nose,” she humorously commented.

The Release and Message

“Christy” is set to begin its global cinematic rollout on November 7. The film not only celebrates Martin’s achievements but also opens dialogue about coercive control in relationships, as highlighted by co-writer Mirrah Foulkes. David Michod emphasized the need to understand how such dynamics operate, often leading to dire consequences worldwide.

The film promises to resonate with audiences by discussing both the power of sport and the complexities of personal relationships. Sydney Sweeney’s performance is poised to captivate viewers and inspire important conversations.