Sydney Sweeney Is Unrecognizable as Boxer Christy Martin In Biopic

Sydney Sweeney is getting into character with a new look as she prepares to portray boxer Christy Martin in an upcoming biopic.

“Well the cats out of the bag thanks to some paps in bushes so here’s a little bts from my film I’m working on right now,” Sweeney, 27, wrote via Instagram on Wednesday, October 16, alongside some first-look photos of her on set. “Over the past few months, 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.”

In the pictures, Sweeney showed off how she’s traded her iconic blonde locks for a curly brunette hairdo with bangs. The actress rocked a pair of gray sweatpants, a red cut-off T-shirt and white sneakers.

Sweeney also proved her training has paid off. In one snap, she flexed her super-toned arm muscle and smiled brightly as she celebrated her new jacked physique.

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“Her journey is a testament to resilience, strength, and hope, and I’m honored to step into her shoes to share her powerful story with you all,” the actress continued. “More to come soon :).”

The project was first announced back in May and Sweeney gushed about how excited she was to get started.

“I grappled and did kickboxing from 12 to 19 years old. I’ve been itching to get back into the ring, train, and transform my body,” Sweeney said in an interview with Deadline at the time. “Christy’s story isn’t a light one, it’s physically and emotionally demanding, there’s a lot of weight to carry. But I love challenging myself.”

While the movie doesn’t have a title yet, it will be directed by David Michôd. In addition to Sweeney, the cast includes Ben Foster, Merritt Wever, Ethan Embry and Katy O’Brian.

The film will follow the life of Martin, now 56, and her journey to become one of America’s most successful women boxers. Martin began her career in 1989 after meeting her manager and later husband James Martin. She went on to win the World Boxing female super welterweight title in 2009. She continued to box until 2012.

In 2010, Christy nearly died after being attacked by James. He was arrested and charged with attempted first degree murder and aggravated battery with a deadly weapon. Two years later, James was found guilty of attempted second-degree murder. He is currently serving a 25-year prison sentence.

Christy was the first woman boxer elected to the Nevada Boxing Hall of Fame in 2016. She was also elected to the International Boxing Hall of Fame in 2020, the first year women were included on the ballot.