Sydney Sweeney discusses boxing training and biopic role as she graces the latest cover of W Magazine’s Summer Issue, opening up about her preparation to portray legendary boxer Christy Martin. In an in-depth interview, Sweeney describes the rigorous regimen she undertook ahead of filming, highlighting the physical and emotional intensity required for her upcoming role.
Transformation for the Christy Martin Biopic
For her feature in W Magazine, Sydney Sweeney shared insights into the dramatic changes she experienced while preparing to play Christy Martin. Well-known for her diverse range of roles, Sweeney’s journey into the world of professional boxing required a complete overhaul of her daily habits and physical conditioning. She detailed her routine, saying:
“I loved it. I came onboard to play Christy, and I had about three and a half months of training. 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. My body was completely different. I didn’t fit in any of my clothes. I’m usually a size 23 in jeans, and I was wearing a size 27. My boobs got bigger. And my butt got huge. It was crazy! I was like, Oh my god. But it was amazing: I was so strong, like crazy strong.”
—Sydney Sweeney, Actress
The character transformation required Sweeney to relinquish her usual wardrobe and embrace the physical realities of intensive sports training. She emphasized how the vigorous schedule left her stronger than she had ever been, highlighting a newfound appreciation for what athletes such as Christy Martin endure in their pursuit of excellence.
Editorial Emphasizes Versatility in Career and Hobbies
Beyond her boxing preparation, Sweeney’s cover shoot for W Magazine, captured by photographer Carlijn Jacobs, explored more facets of the actress’s versatile talents. The editorial depicted her embodying a variety of characters, from a dynamic athlete to iconic figures like Little Red Riding Hood. Outfitted by brands including Fendi, Miu Miu, and Marc Jacobs, the styling underscored Sweeney’s adaptability and range.

The interview also touched on Sweeney’s childhood pastimes, revealing that her dedication to personal growth and new experiences has been a recurring theme throughout her life. This willingness to take on demanding new skills closely mirrors her approach to the Christy Martin biopic, where extreme preparation has become a defining feature of her performance.
Industry Context and Broader Impact
Sweeney’s latest project arrives amid a surge of high-profile performances across film and theater. With major theater stars like Nicole Scherzinger and Darren Criss earning accolades at events such as the Tony Awards, actors are increasingly celebrated for demonstrating range and committing fully to transformative roles on stage and screen. By joining this movement with her depiction of Christy Martin, Sweeney positions herself among performers willing to undergo significant transformations for authenticity.
Her commitment to the physical and emotional demands of the role also highlights the broader trend of actors immersing themselves deeply in preparation, as seen in recent acclaimed films and stage productions. Sweeney’s process stands as an example for aspiring performers and adds momentum to the ongoing dialogue about the dedication and artistry required in bringing real-life figures to vivid life.
Looking Ahead to the Biopic’s Release
As anticipation builds for the Christy Martin biopic, attention will focus on how Sydney Sweeney’s intensive boxing training and deep immersion into the character translates on screen. With a creative team that includes celebrated names in fashion and photography, and an actor whose commitment to authenticity is evident, the project is poised to capture both the physical and emotional journey of a boxing legend. Sweeney’s role could serve as a defining moment, reflecting a commitment to craft that continues to distinguish her within the entertainment industry.