Highlights
- Sydney Sweeney stars as boxer Christy Martin in upcoming biopic Christy.
- The film will premiere at the Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF).
- Sweeney underwent a major physical transformation, gaining over 30 pounds for the role.
- The biopic portrays Martin’s historic career and personal battles.
- Sweeney trained extensively in weightlifting and kickboxing to prepare.
Sweeney debuts dramatic boxing transformation in Christy
Actor Sydney Sweeney is taking on the role of American boxing pioneer Christy Martin in Christy, which will premiere at the Toronto International Film Festival. In newly released promotional material, Sweeney is shown in the ring portraying the fierce former WBC super-welterweight champion.
Christy Martin rose to fame during the 1990s, fighting on the undercards of major pay-per-view boxing events alongside stars like Mike Tyson and Evander Holyfield. She became the first female boxer to appear on the cover of Sports Illustrated and was later inducted into the International Boxing Hall of Fame.
30-pound transformation for biopic role
In preparation for the role, Sweeney revealed she gained over 30 pounds through rigorous training. She told W Magazine that she trained twice daily, focusing on weightlifting and kickboxing to physically embody Martin’s athletic power.
“My body was completely different,” she said. “I didn’t fit in any of my clothes… but it was amazing: I was so strong, like crazy strong.”
The transformation reportedly took months of disciplined physical preparation, with Sweeney sharing progress on social media during filming.
A story of strength and survival
Christy will also explore the personal challenges faced by Martin, including surviving a near-fatal stabbing and shooting by her then-husband. Sweeney previously described the role as both emotionally and physically demanding.
On Instagram, she wrote:
“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. Her journey is a testament to resilience, strength, and hope.”
