The upcoming biopic about boxing champion Christy Martin, led by Sydney Sweeney and directed by David Michôd, has announced several new cast additions as filming begins. The film will portray the true story of Martin’s rise to fame as America’s most successful female boxer in the 1990s, while also shedding light on her personal struggles and tumultuous relationships.
The newly announced cast members include Ben Foster, Merritt Wever, Katy O’Brian, Ethan Embry, Jess Gabor, and Chad L. Coleman. Production for the film has commenced in North Carolina.
Christy Martin’s life changed when she met her manager and later husband, Jim Martin, in 1989. She broke barriers as the first woman to sign with promoter Don King and the only female boxer to grace the cover of Sports Illustrated. Despite her success in the ring, Martin grappled with substance abuse and a toxic relationship, culminating in a harrowing attack by her husband in 2010.
The untitled biopic is being produced by various entities, including Anonymous Content, Yoki, Inc., Votiv, Fifty-Fifty Films, and Black Bear. The international rights are being handled by Black Bear, while UTA Independent Film Group, AC Independent, and Black Bear are collaborating on the U.S. rights.
Notably, this film marks the second collaboration between Sydney Sweeney and Black Bear, following their partnership on the horror film “Immaculate,” which was released by NEON. The cast members are represented by various talent agencies and management firms.
