Ryan Destiny delivers knockout performance in ‘The Fire Inside’

Ryan Destiny stars as boxing champion Claressa Shields in The Fire Inside, a film that follows Shields’ inspiring journey.

Actress Ryan Destiny. Image: Instagram via @RyanDestiny

Ryan Destiny, known for her dynamic acting chops, shines in The Fire Inside.

Released on Christmas Day, the film tells the remarkable story of Claressa Shields, the two-time Olympic boxing champion.

RYAN DESTINY’S NEW ROLE

Destiny steps into Claressa’s shoes with power, grit, and heart, a transformation that has set the awards buzz ablaze.

Destiny faced immense pressure playing Shields, a legend in the boxing world, according to The Wrap.

She admitted feeling the weight of expectation but focused on her craft.

“There’s always pressure, but at the end of the day, the work is done. I can’t change it, so I just let it go,” she said.

A fascinating detail? Both Destiny and Shields hail from Michigan.

RYAN DESTINY’S PORTRAYAL

While this wasn’t intentional, it gave Destiny an edge in her portrayal.

“It was such a blessing. It wasn’t planned, but it really helped me connect with the character,” she revealed.

Fans of boxing will appreciate the film’s authenticity. Destiny had zero experience in the sport before taking on the role.

“Scratch is an understatement,” she joked. “I knew nothing about boxing. I wondered, why would anyone want to get punched in the face?”

TRAINING HARD FOR THE ROLE

Yet, after rigorous training, she transformed into a convincing fighter.

“My coach treated me like a real boxer, not an actor. When professional boxers said, ‘You looked like a fighter,’ I felt on top of the world.”

The emotional core of the film lies in Destiny’s portrayal of Shields’ family and professional struggles, according to IMDB.

Shields herself served as an executive producer, providing critical insights.

“She was an open book,” Destiny said. “She helped me understand her relationships, especially with her mum. It was important to get that right.”

RYAN DESTINY AND BREAKING BARRIERS

The story resonates with South Africans, many of whom face similar challenges.

Shields’ journey, like many in sport, reflects resilience, determination, and breaking barriers.

Destiny also related to Shields as a Black woman thriving in a male-dominated industry.

“That feeling of working twice as hard and still being told it’s not enough? I’ve felt that too,” she shared.

ON SCREEN CHEMISTRY

One of the film’s highlights is the chemistry between Destiny and Brian Tyree Henry, who plays Shields’ trainer, according to Hollywood Outbreak.

Henry, known for his roles in Atlanta and Bullet Train, brought his A-game.

“Brian is incredible,” Destiny said. “We hit it off instantly. He’s like a brother now, and that connection shows on screen.”

RYAN DESTINY AND THE BOXING RING

Despite the intensity of boxing training, Destiny isn’t rushing back to the ring.

“I put the gloves down after filming and haven’t touched them since,” she laughed. “But I might give it another go. Boxing is an amazing workout, so who knows?”

The Fire Inside is more than just a sports film. It’s an inspiring tale of triumph. It is perfect for a South African audience navigating their own battles.

With Destiny’s riveting performance and Shields’ story of resilience, this is one cinematic journey not to miss.