Christy Martin Defends Sydney Sweeney Amid "Christy" Movie Backlash

Christy Martin, the boxing icon, is championing Sydney Sweeney after some attacked the actress following their movie "Christy's" box office underperformance. In the biopic, Sweeney portrayed Martin, recounting her impressive boxing career and personal hardships, including abuse from her coach and husband. Martin, who played a role in the film's creation, closely worked with Sweeney and was seen alongside her during various promotional events like the film's TIFF world premiere.

Martin expressed her unwavering support for Sweeney on Instagram, stating, "I've always been a fighter. My life reflected that in every way and now I fight for others." According to her, Sweeney gave her all for the film and for Martin's story. Standing up for her friend, she said, "She is my friend and ally!"

"Christy" received a less than lukewarm response at the box office, grossing a mere $1.3 million in its debut in North America. The production, which cost approximately $15 million and had generated preliminary Oscar predictions for Sweeney, was branded a failure by social media critics. In response to the backlash, Sweeney affirmed the movie's significance to her, saying its impact transcends box office figures.

Sydney Sweeney posted her side of the story on Instagram, stating that "Christy" is the most impactful project she has ever undertaken. She talked about the themes of the movie, including survival, courage, and hope and how it has helped raise awareness about domestic violence. She thanked everyone who has and will continue to support the project, maintaining that even if the movie inspired one woman to move towards safety, it would be seen as a success.

The movie also sparked feud among actors when Ruby Rose, known for her roles in "Orange Is the New Black" and "Batgirl," criticized Sweeney and the film after a rumored initial consideration for a role in the biopic. Rose voiced her dissatisfaction, claiming Sweeney "ruined the film."

"Christy" is still showing in theaters across the nation under Black Bear Pictures. Martin's complete Instagram statement is available below.