USA Boxing's Naomi Graham Set to Play Laila Ali in Feature Film "Christy"

The highly anticipated movie "Christy" will debut in theaters on Friday, November 7. The movie highlights the legacy and boxing career of Christy Martin, and her path as a trailblazer in the sport throughout the 1990s. USA Boxing is proud to support not only the movie but also shine a light on Naomi Graham, 2020 Olympian and 2025 USA Boxing Elite High Performance Team member, as she makes her cinematic debut.

Graham has emerged as one of the USA Boxing's top female boxers in recent years, having won a gold medal at the 2019 Pan American Games, which secured her a spot at the Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games. Graham now makes her big-screen debut as the iconic Laila Ali, the daughter of the legendary Muhammad Ali.

"It meant a lot to play Laila Ali's character," Graham stated. "What it means to portray Laila Ali is portraying a pioneer for women’s boxing who has demonstrated strength, confidence, and determination. She is also inspirational and empowering, so it meant everything to have to embody her in my role."

Graham, known for her skills inside the ring, gained lifetime experience by playing an iconic character in this film. Graham expressed that boxing fans should expect passion and inspiration from the movie. The 2020 Olympian stated that Christy Martin was someone who inspired her own boxing career, and to play a role in her story was a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

"The experience was amazing and one of a lifetime. To see up close what actors go through while also being treated so well and spoiled. I watched as everyone worked numerous hours at a time. Being able to watch behind the scenes and how everything was done really had me taking in the moment."

USA Boxing fans can support Graham by watching “Christy” in theaters today.