Sydney Sweeney Transforms for Christy Martin Biopic With 30-Pound Weight Gain and Intense Training
The Euphoria star bulks up and toughens up to portray boxing legend Christy Martin in a film that promises grit, power, and deep emotional layers.
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Los Angeles, June 10: Sydney Sweeney, known for her scene-stealing performances in Euphoria and The White Lotus, is stepping into unfamiliar territory—both literally and emotionally. The actor has transformed herself entirely to portray former boxing world champion Christy Martin, a woman whose life has been as brutal outside the ring as it was inside it.
Boxing, Body Image, And Becoming Christy Martin
Speaking to W Magazine, Sweeney didn’t hold back about the toll and triumph of the transformation. She gained over 30 pounds, shifted sizes from 23 to 27 in jeans, and said with refreshing honesty, “My boobs got bigger. And my butt got huge. It was crazy!”
Her day-to-day schedule involved weight training twice and kickboxing for two hours daily. “I was so strong, like crazy strong,” she shared, still sounding surprised at how far her limits could stretch.
But this wasn’t a vanity muscle-up. It was part of Sweeney’s commitment to do justice to Christy Martin’s story—a woman who fought through the ranks in a male-dominated sport and survived a life-threatening attack that shook the boxing world.
From Coal Mines To Crowds: Christy Martin’s Rise
Born in Mullens, West Virginia, Christy Martin was never expected to become a household name. But in 1996, she burst onto the national scene when she appeared on the cover of Sports Illustrated—a landmark moment for women in sports. Known as the “Coal Miner’s Daughter,” Martin earned 49 career wins, 32 of them by knockout, and became WBC Super Welterweight Champion in 2009.
She trained under legendary promoter Don King, and for years, her bouts would feature alongside men’s headliners like Mike Tyson, bringing women’s boxing mainstream attention for the first time.
A Shocking Act Of Violence
In November 2010, Martin’s career came to a sudden, terrifying halt. Her then-husband and trainer, James Martin, attacked her inside their Florida home—stabbing her multiple times and shooting her in the torso. Somehow, she survived.
The case went to trial in 2012, and James Martin was sentenced to 25 years for attempted second-degree murder. He passed away in 2024.
Christy Martin didn’t just recover—she came back with purpose. She became a vocal advocate for domestic violence survivors and launched her own boxing promotion company to uplift underrepresented athletes.
Sydney Sweeney Portrayal Comes With Christy’s Blessing
Sweeney didn’t take on the role lightly. According to director David Michôd, she immersed herself completely—not only physically but mentally, drawing inspiration from Martin’s toughness and trauma. “Sydney became Christy,” he said. “It wasn’t just an impersonation. It was embodiment.”
Martin herself visited the film set, offering guidance and encouragement. “I hope fathers watch this film with their daughters,” she told TalkSport, adding that the project goes beyond boxing—it’s about survival, resilience, and starting over.
Behind The Camera: A Gritty Vision With An Award-Winning Team
The film, still untitled, brings together a talented lineup. Apart from Michôd’s direction, the script is co-written by Mirrah Foulkes, and production comes from Black Bear Pictures, Anonymous Content, and Sweeney’s own company, Fifty-Fifty Films.
Ben Foster stars as James Martin, with Katy O’Brien portraying Lisa Holewyne, Christy’s partner and fellow boxer. The cast also includes Merritt Wever, Ethan Embry, Jess Gabor, Chad L. Coleman as Don King, and Tony Cavalero.
Filming took place in North Carolina, wrapping up by late 2024. The story will trace Martin’s entire arc—from her scrappy beginnings in Appalachia to her title-winning fights and near-death experience.
More Than Just A Sports Drama
This isn’t just another inspirational sports movie. The script dives deep into Christy’s private life, including her long road to self-acceptance and her eventual marriage to Lisa Holewyne in 2017. Martin, who struggled with her sexuality in silence during her boxing years, now uses her voice to support young athletes in similar situations.
For Sweeney, the role marks a turning point. Known for portraying emotional chaos on screen, this project shifts her into the realm of biopic prestige. While there’s already some Oscar chatter bubbling online, what matters more is the sense of responsibility Sweeney carries. As she said on Instagram last October, “Her journey is a testament to resilience, strength, and hope. I’m honored to step into her shoes.”
When To Expect The Film
While there’s no confirmed release date yet, industry watchers anticipate a Fall 2025 premiere—possibly at Toronto International Film Festival or another major awards platform. With its powerhouse performances, real-life stakes, and cultural relevance, the Christy Martin biopic is shaping up to be one of the year’s most anticipated titles.
For now, fans will have to wait, but judging by the buzz and behind-the-scenes glimpses, this one promises to land some emotional punches.
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