“I Was Shocked”: Naomi Graham Blessed to Play Muhammad Ali’s Daughter Laila Ali’s Role in Sydney Sweeney-Led Boxing Biopic

It looks like director David Michod does not want to leave any stone unturned for his upcoming movie. 'The King' director is directing a biopic on legendary female boxer Christy Martin Sydney Sweeney as the main lead. Over the past few months, this upcoming movie has been the talk of the town.

Whether it be for the sensational transformation by Sydney Sweeney or the hiring of Team USA assistant coach for the Boxing Olympic team, Christine Lopez to provide an authentic touch to the film, Michod is not leaving anything up for chances. Well, it looks like the appointment of Lopez is bearing fruit as she roped in 2020 Tokyo Olympian U.S. Army Staff Sergeant Naomi Graham to play an integral role in the movie.

Dream come true for Graham Lopez invited Naomi Graham on her YouTube channel 'InTheRingwithChristine' and talked about the latter's role in the movie. The Fayetteville native was excited about landing the role of undefeated boxing star Laila Ali in the movie. She stated, "When I got the call, I was shocked. I was like, Yes I will take that role," in a cheerful tone.

The 35-year-old army officer revealed that she got the call from Christine Lopez and she accepted the role because that is something she always wanted. "That is something I have always wanted to do but I never knew how to get into it, stated Graham. Naomi Graham and Christine Lopez have worked together earlier during the preparation of the 2020 Tokyo Summer Games. Lopez was the Assistant Coach for Team USA's Olympic boxing team, while Graham was part of the roster.

Earlier in the interview, Graham also revealed that she always wanted to "go to a art school before boxing" and wanted to be a model and actor. So, getting a chance to do boxing on the big screen was like a blessing for her and a chance that she could never deny. She stated, "I looked at it like it was a blessing and doors opening for me. So, when I got the call, I was like why would I say no to that," while trying to control her emotions.

Furthermore, Graham also revealed that Laila Ali is like an idol to her. The former two-weight champion was a trailblazer in boxing and someone Graham " looked up to as well." This is Graham's first acting stint and we will soon see how she will fare on the big screen. But this movie is not only a challenge for Graham but also for Sydney Sweeney, who is being noticed by everyone.

Sydney Sweeney's ultimate challenge The 27-year-old Spokane native was announced as the lead actor in the upcoming Christy Martin biopic back in May. The news instantly went viral, but fans had mixed feelings regarding the casting of Sydney Sweeney to portray the 2020 International Boxing Hall of Fame inductee.

Fans were unsure regarding the casting as it is not an easy role and they wanted someone far more established to play the role. But, last month, the consensus changed when Sydney Sweeney dropped a few behind-the-scenes pictures showcasing her sensational body transformation. The buffed-up actress changed the narrative and fans started to believe in her dedication to the movie.

While Sydney Sweeney is the lead actress, Naomi Graham will also have an integral role in the movie. The rivalry between Christy Martin and Laila Ali is one of the most intense rivalries in the boxing world. The duo faced each other on August 23, 2003, which changed the female boxing scenario to a certain extent. Ali won a one-sided match, but the aftermath of the fight left a lasting impact on both of their careers, especially Martin.

What do you think about the casting of Naomi Graham as Laila Ali? Do you think she can recreate the magic alongside Sydney Sweeney and do justice to the legendary rivalry? Let us know your thoughts down below.