Sydney Sweeney Finds Power and Strength in Boxing Role as Christy Martin
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Sydney Sweeney, known for her role in the hit series ‘Euphoria,’ has shared her transformative experience while embodying the legendary boxing icon, Christy Martin, in the upcoming sports drama, Christy. In an exclusive interview with PEOPLE, Sweeney, alongside Martin, delves into the emotional and physical impact of bringing this inspiring story to life on the big screen.
The film, directed by David Michôd, chronicles the journey of Christy Martin, from her rise in the boxing world during the 1990s to her tumultuous marriage with her former manager, James “Jim” Martin, portrayed by Ben Foster. Sweeney, 28, admits that stepping into Christy’s shoes was a profound experience that left her feeling empowered. “I feel like I’ve taken a little bit of Christy’s strength,” Sweeney shares. “I feel like I got her fire inside me and some fight inside me.”
The actress reflects on the intense physical training she underwent to authentically portray Martin. Gaining 30 pounds and immersing herself in boxing preparation, Sweeney states, “I didn’t want to leave the ring. It was a blast. We were hitting each other. There were bloody noses. I got a concussion. Christy was screaming in the corner what I should be doing next. I felt like I was in a real fight.”
Martin, who was inducted into the International Boxing Hall of Fame in 2020, acknowledges Sweeney’s dedication to the role, praising her commitment to authenticity. Recalling their on-set interactions, Martin shares her coaching moments with Sweeney, ensuring she captured the essence of Martin’s spirit in each punch thrown. “You can feel someone’s energy,” Martin explains. “Either they have it or they don’t. She felt very down-to-earth to me. As big of a star as she is, she still felt grounded.”
The bond between Sweeney and Martin extends beyond the film’s production, as the duo have embarked on a joint press tour to share Christy’s story with audiences. From receiving a standing ovation at the Toronto International Film Festival to promoting the movie nationwide, their camaraderie is evident. Martin expresses, “She’s stuck with me for a while,” to which Sweeney adds, “Yeah, we’re not getting rid of each other.”
Christy is set to hit theatres on Friday, Nov. 6, offering audiences a glimpse into the remarkable life of a trailblazing female athlete whose resilience and determination continue to inspire. Sweeney’s portrayal of Martin promises to be a captivating and powerful performance that showcases the strength of women in sports and in life.
As fans eagerly anticipate the release of Christy, the impactful partnership between Sweeney and Martin serves as a testament to the enduring bond forged through storytelling and shared experiences. Stay tuned for the film’s premiere and witness the compelling narrative of one woman’s fight for success and survival in and out of the boxing ring.