CANASTOTA, NEW YORK - JUNE 8: Actress Sydney Sweeney and Christy Martin visit the International Boxing Hall of Fame before the Parade of Champions on June 8, 2025 in Canastota, New York. (Photo by Ed Mulholland/Getty Images)
Sydney Sweeney, known for her role in the hit series “Euphoria,” has revealed the extensive physical transformation she underwent to portray legendary boxer Christy Martin. In a recent interview with W Magazine, Sweeney detailed the rigorous training regimen that led to her gaining over 30 pounds to authentically embody the boxing icon.
During the three and a half months leading up to filming, Sweeney committed to a demanding schedule. “I started eating. I weight-trained in the morning for an hour, kickboxed midday for about two hours, and then weight-trained again at night for an hour,” she explained. This intense routine resulted in significant changes to her physique, including a shift in clothing sizes and increased muscle mass.
Transformative Training for a Pioneering Role
Sweeney’s dedication to the role of Christy Martin, a trailblazer in women’s boxing, is evident in her physical transformation. “My body was completely different,” Sweeney noted, recounting how she went from a size 23 in jeans to a size 27. “My boobs got bigger. And my butt got huge. It was crazy! I was like, ‘Oh my God.’”
Despite these changes, Sweeney embraced her new physique. “It was amazing: I was so strong, like crazy strong,” she added, highlighting the empowerment she felt through her physical strength.
Christy Martin: A Boxing Legend
Christy Martin, whose career began in 1989, is celebrated as one of the most prolific female boxers in history. Her achievements include winning the WBC female super welterweight world champion title in 2009 and becoming the only female boxer to grace the cover of Sports Illustrated. Martin’s life, however, was not without its challenges. In 2010, she survived a near-fatal attack by her then-husband, Jim Martin, who was subsequently sentenced to 25 years in prison.
“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,” Sweeney wrote on Instagram. “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 Impact of Physical Transformation in Acting
Sweeney’s transformation underscores the lengths to which actors often go to authentically portray their characters. This dedication not only enhances the credibility of their performance but also brings greater depth to the storytelling. The physical demands of such roles can be taxing, yet they often result in a profound personal and professional growth for the actors involved.
According to Dr. Jane Roberts, a sports psychologist, “The process of physically transforming for a role can be incredibly empowering for actors. It allows them to connect with their characters on a deeper level and can lead to a more immersive and convincing portrayal.”
Looking Ahead: The Biopic’s Anticipation
The announcement of Sweeney’s involvement in the Christy Martin biopic has generated significant anticipation among fans and critics alike. The film promises to explore not only Martin’s achievements in the boxing ring but also her personal struggles and triumphs outside of it. With Sweeney’s commitment to the role, audiences can expect a nuanced and compelling depiction of Martin’s life.
As the film progresses towards its release, Sydney Sweeney’s transformation stands as a testament to her dedication and the powerful story she aims to tell. The biopic is set to offer a poignant look at the life of a woman who broke barriers and inspired many, both in and out of the ring.
