“[Sylvester Stallone] Didn’t Even Know How to…” – Soccer Icon Pele Claimed To Have Changed the Script for 1981 Movie ‘Escape to Victory’

It might come as a surprise that Rocky star Sylvester Stallone and soccer legend Pele had a very close relationship, given that they come from different backgrounds and different nationalities. But in an unlikely collaboration, both of them starred in a 1981 movie called “Escape to Victory”.

This was a special film for both as it was an acting debut for Pele and a soccer debut for Stallone. Other notable stars in the film include Michael Caine, Max von Sydow, and soccer legends Bobby Moore and Osvaldo Ardiles. Recently, just a week after Pele’s death, Ardiles shared how Pele changed the script of the movie for Stallone.

Pele changed the script of the movie for Sylvester Stallone

The Argentine legend shared his experience while filming the movie. Firstly, he talked about what originally was planned to happen. “In the original script it said that after saving the penalty (which by the way, I committed), he grabbed the ball, dribbled his way through the entire German side and scored the winner,” he said.

Then he talked about how Pele pitched in a comment saying, “Then Bobby Moore and Pelé said that this would be impossible because Sly didn’t even know how to save the ball.” He further added, “It was Sunday and the filming had to be finished at all costs, so the script was modified.”

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As we all know, the scene was rewritten accordingly. The match ended with Stallone saving the penalty and their team picking up the victory.

Stallone shared a heartfelt message after Pele’s death

Last year, the world was saddened by the news of Pele’s death. The Brazilian soccer legend was one of the most beloved figures in the sport, and his passing left a huge void. Many people paid tribute to Pele, including Stallone.

The actor took to Instagram to share a black-and-white picture of himself and the soccer icon. “PELE THE GREAT! Rest in peace! This was a good man,” the message read. Stallone’s tribute to Pele was just one of many from celebrities and fans around the world. But it was his personal connection to the soccer legend that made his message so special.

Watch this story: “Goodbye to the Eternal King Pele”: Usain Bolt Joins David Beckham, Cristiano Ronaldo, and Soccer World in Mourning the Saddening Loss of GOAT Pele