Sydney Sweeney, the 27-year-old actress known for her role in Euphoria, recently addressed body shaming comments with a powerful Instagram video. The video showcased screenshots of negative comments about her appearance, juxtaposed with footage of her intense boxing training for an upcoming biopic.
The online criticism, largely stemming from paparazzi photos of Sweeney in a bikini, included comments calling her “frumpy” and “average.” Sweeney responded by highlighting her rigorous physical preparation for her role as Christy Martin, a legendary female boxer. The training footage included tire flips, weightlifting, boxing drills, and impressive displays of muscular strength.
This training is part of Sweeney’s preparation for a biopic about Martin, a project she announced in October. In an Instagram post, Sweeney described immersing herself in training to accurately portray “an incredible woman—a true champion who fought battles both inside and outside the ring.” She expressed honor in sharing Martin’s “powerful story” of resilience, strength, and hope.
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Christy Martin, now 56, achieved widespread fame in the 1990s as one of America’s most successful female boxers. She holds the distinction of being the first woman inducted into both the Nevada Boxing Hall of Fame (2016) and the International Boxing Hall of Fame (2020). In 1996, Martin became the first female boxer to appear on the cover of Sports Illustrated, a feat matched only by Ronda Rousey in 2015.
Martin’s life story extends beyond the boxing ring. In 2010, she survived an attempted murder by her then-husband, James V. Martin, who was subsequently sentenced to 25 years in prison. Martin later married Lisa Holewyne, a former boxing rival, in 2017. She retired from professional boxing in 2012.
Sweeney recently announced the completion of filming for the currently untitled Christy Martin biopic, describing it as a deeply transformative experience. Having Martin present on set provided further inspiration, with Sweeney acknowledging the emotional impact of witnessing Martin’s resilience firsthand.
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Directed by David Michôd, the film features a strong cast including Ben Foster as James Martin, Merritt Weaver, Ethan Embry, and Katy O’Brien, alongside Sweeney in the lead role. The film promises to be a compelling narrative of resilience, survival, and the power of the human spirit.
