Sydney Sweeney set to ‘transform her body’ to play ‘the female Rocky’ in upcoming movie

'It's physically and emotionally demanding'

Sweeney revealed she has a background in combat sports and the role allowed her to rediscover her connection with the sport.

Speaking to Deadline she said: “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.

“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, known as ‘The Female Rocky’, rose to fame in the 1990s and became one of the first female boxers to be inducted into the International Boxing Hall of Fame.  

Sweeney continued to talk about what an inspiration Martin had been, she said: “Christy Martin not only legitimised 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.”

Martin, who produced a 49-7-3 record, not only overcame adversity in her career but in her personal life as well.

In 2010, she was stabbed several times and shot by her husband James Martin who then left her for dead.

Miraculously, she survived the attack and he was arrested and found guilty of attempted second-degree murder.

The filmmakers are planning to begin shooting in America later this year, but it is unclear who will star alongside Sweeney and the film does not yet have a definitive title.