Hollywood heavyweight Sydney Sweeney has announced that she will star in a sports biopic depicting former world champion boxer Christy Martin.
Martin became the first woman to be inducted into the Nevada Boxing Hall of Fame in 2016, before being elected to the International Boxing Hall of Fame four years later.
Her illustrious career consisted of 59 professional bouts, with the American enjoying a nine-fight unbeaten run before bumping into legendary boxer Leila Ali.
But then, after getting stopped in the fourth round by Muhammad Ali’s daughter, Martin claimed the WBC world super welterweight title in 2009, outpointing Dakota Stone.
Sydney Sweeney looks unrecognizable as Christy Martin
Sweeney has now revealed two photos of her on set filming the David Michôd-directed movie.
The American actor appears to be sporting a new hairstyle, which she showcased while tensing the muscles she has developed from her rigorous training.
Her new project is seemingly more than just a boxing movie, though, as, towards the end of her boxing career, Martin also survived a murder attempt by her husband.
Miraculously, she overcame several stab wounds and a gunshot, with her husband, James Martin, ultimately being convicted of attempted second-degree murder in 2012 – and was sentenced to 25 years in prison.
“Well the cats out of the bag thanks to some paps in bushes so here’s a little bts [behind the scenes] from my film I’m working on right now,” Sweeney said on her Instagram post.
“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.
“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.”
Fans support Sydney Sweeney in new boxing role
It is fair to say that, after starring in teen dramas like Euphoria, Sweeney will now be taking on a role that is vastly removed from anything she has previously tackled.
However, fans have largely been supportive of the widely popular actor, looking forward to seeing her try her hand at something different.
One fan commented on her Instagram post, and said: “Hope this is finally the non-sexualized iconic role that showcases her acting talent that she’s been needing.”
Another fan added: “THE DELTS! Wow! Nice work!”