Sydney Sweeney Transforms into Boxer Christy Martin

Hollywood actress Sydney Sweeney has completely transformed her appearance for her latest role in the upcoming biopic Christy, where she plays the legendary female boxer Christy Martin. Known for her glamorous roles in shows like Euphoria and The White Lotus, Sweeney now appears almost unrecognizable in her latest film look—sporting a short, dark haircut, boxing gloves, and a noticeably muscular physique.

This intense transformation has quickly caught the attention of fans and media across the globe, as the first official photo from the film was released this week ahead of its premiere at the Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF) in September 2025.

From Red Carpet Star to Ring-Ready Fighter

To accurately portray Christy Martin—one of the most iconic female boxers in history—Sweeney committed herself fully, both mentally and physically. According to interviews with the actress, she gained nearly 30 pounds of muscle through an intense workout and boxing routine that lasted over three months.

She trained daily, sometimes even twice a day, focusing on kickboxing and weight training. “My body was completely different… I was so strong, like crazy strong,” Sweeney told W Magazine. She revealed that the changes were so significant that she had to buy a completely new wardrobe for her day-to-day life. Her jeans size jumped from 23 to 27 during the transformation.

This was more than just physical preparation. Sweeney also worked closely with Christy Martin herself, who served as a consultant on the film. Their collaboration helped Sweeney understand Martin’s mindset in and out of the ring, especially as the film tackles the deeper emotional aspects of Martin’s life beyond her boxing success.

In the film, directed by David Michôd (The King, Animal Kingdom), viewers will see more than just sports scenes. The story dives into Christy Martin’s real-life struggles with addiction, domestic abuse, and survival after being stabbed and left for dead by her husband and trainer in 2010. Despite the trauma, Martin survived and became an outspoken advocate for survivors of domestic violence.

 

 

 

 

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Christy Biopic Set to Reveal Untold Story of a Boxing Icon

Christy Martin rose to fame in the 1990s, becoming the first female boxer to sign with legendary promoter Don King and the only woman to appear on the cover of Sports Illustrated at that time. She helped pave the way for women in a male-dominated sport and became a symbol of strength and perseverance.

The biopic doesn’t just focus on her victories in the ring, but also on her personal battles, including her near-death experience and eventual comeback as a motivational figure and activist. In 2016, Martin founded Christy’s Champs, a non-profit that raises awareness about domestic violence and helps victims access support.

According to co-stars and producers, Sweeney’s dedication on set was remarkable. Fellow actress Katy O’Brian revealed that many of the boxing scenes involved real punches. “She hit me quite a few times for real,” O’Brian told CinemaBlend, praising Sweeney’s effort to bring realism to the film.

The cast also includes Ben Foster, Merritt Wever, Ethan Embry, and Katy O’Brian, adding depth to the storytelling. With its TIFF premiere on the horizon, expectations are already high for the film to receive awards attention, especially considering Sweeney’s intense physical and emotional performance.

Here’s what we know so far about Christy:

• Director: David Michôd

• Writers: David Michôd and Mirrah Foulkes

• Starring: Sydney Sweeney as Christy Martin

• Supporting Cast: Ben Foster, Merritt Wever, Ethan Embry, Katy O’Brian

• Premiere: September 2025, Toronto International Film Festival

The film is expected to explore every phase of Christy Martin’s life—from her early days in the ring to her public battles and inspiring comeback. It's being described as both a sports film and a personal journey that highlights resilience, strength, and survival.