The Rocky film franchise can be considered as one of the most iconic representations of boxing on the silver screen. Moreover, Sylvester Stallone’s portrayal of Rocky Balboa has left a lasting impression in the hearts of boxing fans. Meanwhile, a recently resurfaced video showed the Hollywood star choreographing a boxing scene.
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The first Rocky film was released in the year 1976. In fact, it was even written by Stallone himself. Former linebacker turned actor, Carl Weathers, played the role of Balboa’s rival Apollo Creed in the film. Notably, the footage showed the duo practicing a scene where Creed knocks down Balboa. Moreover, talking about the desired effect, Stallone said, “I really want to feel flying into these ropes.”
CARL WEATHERS The GREAT APOLLO CREED ready to Rumble pic.twitter.com/W0i0mRclzV
— Sylvester Stallone (@TheSlyStallone) November 21, 2015
Weathers then proceeded to deliver a mock left jab right hook combination sending Stallone to the ropes. Moreover, the duo also went on to practice multiple combinations and falls.
Additionally, Weathers also mentioned that he studied the fights of Muhammad Ali, Joe Lewis, and Sugar Ray Robinson to prepare for the role. He even stated that the videos helped him learn how to think and move like a fighter.
When Sylvester Stallone almost cast Deontay Wilder
The Rocky franchise also paved way for the Creed series. Notably, the series involved Balboa training Creed’s son Adonis Creed for greatness. In fact, Sylvester Stallone wished to cast former WBC heavyweight champion, Deontay Wilder, in the third installment of the Creed series.
Wilder had expressed his desire to venture into acting. Moreover, he stated that he wished to play Clubber Lang’s son. Notably, Lang was the main antagonist in Rocky III. And, the character was portrayed by the iconic Laurence Tureaud AKA Mr.T.
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Meanwhile, Stallone was quick to respond to Wilder’s statement. He mentioned that he would love to have Wilder play the character and that he was welcome to audition. However, he also joked that the 6’7″ Wilder was not tall enough for the role.
It is also worth mentioning that the formidable heavyweight would have perfectly lived the role of Lang’s son.
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What do you think of the training footage? Let us know in the comments below.