New images from the set of David Michôd‘s upcoming Christy Martin biopic show Sydney Sweeney fully transformed into the former professional boxer, with filming underway in Charlotte, North Carolina. See the images below.
In the images shared by TMZ, Sweeney looks completely different. She’s seen walking around in a pink Christy Martin sleeveless shirt, showing off her toned arm muscles and pink boxing shoes. And in the background, a pink sports car is parked.
This marks the first major transformation for the Hollywood rising star — as Sweeney undergoes a complete physical change. She has been dedicating herself to intense physical training and gym exercises — all to resemble Christy Martin. Directed by David Michôd from a screenplay he co-wrote with Mirrah Foulkes.
What is the Plot of Christy Martin’s Biopic?
The untitled film portrays the true story of Martin’s rise as America’s foremost female boxer in the 1990s, earning her the title of the “female Rocky” according to the film’s producers. Gifted in the ring, her life took a turn in 1989 upon meeting her manager, later husband, Jim Martin. She shattered norms by becoming the first woman to sign with Don King and the sole female boxer featured on Sports Illustrated’s cover. Despite her charisma and ring prowess, she faced personal struggles, including toxic relationships and a near-fatal attack.
In a statement to Deadline, Sweeney said, “I grappled and did kickboxing from 12-19 years old. I’ve been itching to get back into the ring, train, and transform my body. Christy’s story isn’t a light one, it’s physically and emotionally demanding, and there’s a lot of weight to carry. But I love challenging myself.”
Sweeney continued, “Christy Martin not only legitimized female boxing, she overcame gender stereotypes, and fought through emotional, physical, and financial abuse.” Sweeney added. “I’m passionate about the fighting world, Christy’s story shines a light on her incredible rise to the top while showing the struggles of fame behind the curtains. I feel compelled to tell a story about a woman who faced so much adversity and didn’t allow it to defeat her. It’s powerful and emotional.”
The film also stars Ben Foster as James V. Martin, Merritt Wever as Joyce Salters, Katy O’Brian as Lisa Holewyne, Ethan Embry as John Salters, Jess Gabor as Sherry Lusk, Chad L. Coleman as Don King, and Tony Cavalero as James Maloney.
Produced by Kerry Kohansky-Roberts (Boy Erased) for Anonymous Content, Michôd for Yoki, Justin Lothrop and Brent Stiefel (As You Are) for Votiv, Sweeney for Fifty-Fifty Films, and Teddy Schwarzman for Black Bear, which is also fully financing. The filmmakers mention that Martin, the film’s subject, has been collaborating with the team on the project. Executive producers include Michael Heimler, John Friedberg, Foulkes, Brad Zimmerman for Yoki, Inc., and David Levine, Ryan Schwartz, and Nick Shumaker for Anonymous Content.
The Christy Martin biopic will hit theaters in 2025. The exact date and distribution rights have not yet been revealed.
Source: TMZ
