Sydney Sweeney is set to star in an upcoming biopic where she’ll portray legendary former boxer Christy Martin.
According to Deadline, the upcoming film will be directed by David Michôd (Oz, The King), and is untitled as of now. However, the film will follow Martin’s rise as the best known female boxer in the 1990s. Martin is a legend in the boxing world, and during her fighting career was the first woman to ever sign with Don King’s boxing promotion.
No other casting information is available as of now, but Deadline notes that the film is expected to begin filming later this fall, and will be one of the many films at the upcoming Cannes Film Festival that seeks to be purchased for distribution.
Sweeney is excited to step into the ring and transform herself
Speaking to Deadline, Sweeney pointed to her history with grappling and kickboxing training as a reason for taking on the role, she’s been “itching to get back into the ring.”
“I grappled and did kickboxing from 12-19 years old. I’ve been itching to get back into the ring, train, and transform my body,” said Sweeney. “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.
“Christy Martin not only legitimized female boxing she overcame gender stereotypes, and fought through emotional, physical, and financial abuse. I’m passionate about the fighting world, Christy’s story shines a light on her incredible rise to the top while showing the struggles of fame behind the curtains. I feel compelled to tell a story about a woman who faced so much adversity and didn’t allow it to defeat her. It’s powerful, and emotional.”
