Sydney Sweeney’s Grueling yet Glamorous Transformation into Boxing Legend Christy Martin

As a wordsmith with a penchant for the dramatic, I, Maya Rivers, find myself enthralled by the tale of Sydney Sweeney’s metamorphosis into the indomitable Christy Martin, a boxing legend who defied the odds and shattered stereotypes. In a candid conversation with E! News’ Francesca Amiker, Sweeney revealed that her journey to embodying Martin was nothing short of euphoric, a testament to the actress’s dedication and passion for her craft.

Sydney Sweeney’s transformation into her latest role was nothing short of breathtaking, as she bulked up 30 pounds to play professional boxer Christy Martin in the upcoming biopic. The 27-year-old actress shared that the process of gaining weight and undergoing rigorous training was an experience she cherished, one that left her feeling empowered and strong. “It was probably one of the most amazing, fun experiences,” Sweeney exclusively told E! News ahead of the world premiere at the 2025 Toronto International Film Festival on Sept. 5. “I was a very happy person, and I became so strong. I felt so good. I mean, I just felt Christy’s power.”

Sweeney’s journey to becoming Christy Martin was not an easy one, as she had to undergo intense physical training to prepare for the role. The actress revealed that her typical day consisted of weight-training in the morning for an hour, kickboxing midday for about two hours, and then weight-training again at night for an hour. “I started eating everything to build enough muscle to get into professional boxing mode,” she shared with W magazine in an interview published in June. Despite the grueling schedule, Sweeney found joy in the process, stating, “I loved it. It just felt fun and exciting. I don’t know if I was like, ‘Oh my god, it’s grueling,’ because it was just such a good time.”

As Sweeney delved deeper into the role, she not only had to transform physically but also mentally, to truly capture the essence of Christy Martin. The actress acknowledged that Martin’s story is not a light one, as it involves overcoming physical and emotional abuse, as well as gender stereotypes. “Christy’s story isn’t a light one, it’s physically and emotionally demanding, there’s a lot of weight to carry,” she told Deadline last year. “But I love challenging myself. Christy Martin not only legitimized female boxing, she overcame gender stereotypes and fought through emotional, physical and financial abuse.”

The film, which also stars Ben Foster as James Martin, Christy’s former boxing coach and husband, promises to be an inspiring and captivating portrayal of a woman who defied the odds. Sweeney’s costar underwent a significant transformation as well, trading in his signature beard for a clean-shaven look and donning a blonde wig. The actress herself underwent a dramatic makeover, ditching her signature blonde locks for a dark, neck-length brunette ‘do.

Sweeney’s dedication to her craft is evident in her approach to the role, as she described herself as a “very hands-on collaborator.” “I like being able to give ideas, be a part of it, help come up with solutions,” she told The Los Angeles Times in March 2024. “It just changes the whole process. It’s so hard for me now to be on a set and not be able to help in any type of way and be able to take action. And being able to actually have a voice and have a valued opinion—it means so much.”

As the world waits with bated breath for the release of the biopic, Sweeney’s transformation into Christy Martin serves as a testament to the power of dedication and passion. With her captivating performance, Sweeney is poised to bring Martin’s inspiring story to life, leaving audiences in awe of the actress’s talent and commitment.

And so, the stage is set for a cinematic spectacle that promises to be as captivating as it is inspiring, a true celebration of the human spirit.

Sources: Celebrity Storm and E! News, W magazine, Deadline, The Los Angeles Times
Attribution: Creative Commons Licensed