Senate 54

SENATE RESOLUTION 54

(By Senator Helton)

[Introduced February 26, 2026]

Recognizing Christy Martin of Mullens, Wyoming County, West Virginia, for her remarkable achievements in boxing and the 2025 release of her major motion picture.

Whereas, Christy Martin was raised in Mullens, Wyoming County, West Virginia, within the coalfield community, where the values of hard work, perseverance, resilience, and determination shaped her character and future success; and

Whereas, Christy Martin distinguished herself as a student-athlete at Concord College, now Concord University, where she played women’s basketball and later graduated with a degree in education, demonstrating academic commitment alongside athletic excellence; and

Whereas, Christy Martin went on to become an accomplished professional boxer and is widely recognized as a pioneer of women’s boxing, helping to elevate the sport to national and international prominence at a time when opportunities for female boxers were limited; and

Whereas, Christy Martin made history as the first female boxer ever signed by legendary promoter Don King, marking a major breakthrough for women in professional boxing and opening doors for future generations of female athletes; and

Whereas, Throughout her competitive career, Christy Martin competed in numerous nationally and internationally televised bouts, earning widespread recognition and bringing honor, pride, and positive attention to the State of West Virginia; and

Whereas, Christy Martin, known as the “The Coal Miner’s Daughter”, is a trailblazing American boxer inducted into the West Virginia Boxing Hall of Fame in 2015.  She revolutionized women’s boxing (1989-2012) with a 49-7-3 (31 KOs) record; and

Whereas, In recognition of her extraordinary impact on the sport, Christy Martin was also inducted into the International Boxing Hall of Fame in 2020, the highest honor in the sport of boxing; and

Whereas, Following her competitive career, Christy Martin continued her contributions to boxing as a professional promoter, developing fighters, expanding opportunities within the sport, and serving as a mentor to emerging athletes; and

Whereas, Christy Martin, a survivor of domestic violence, has demonstrated exceptional courage, strength, and resiliency, using her public platform to advocate nationally for survivors, raise awareness, and promote the prevention of domestic violence; and

Whereas, Christy Martin’s life story and legacy are further honored through the release of a major motion picture titled Christy in 2025, bringing her inspiring journey to audiences worldwide; therefore, be it

Resolved by the Senate:

That the Senate hereby recognizes Christy Martin of Mullens, Wyoming County, West Virginia for her remarkable achievements in boxing and the 2025 release of her major motion picture; and, be it

Further Resolved, That the Clerk is hereby directed to forward a copy of this resolution to Christy Martin.