
via Getty
LONDON, ENGLAND – JUNE 20: Sylvester Stallone onstage during the Paramount+ UK launch at Outernet London on June 20, 2022 in London, England. (Photo by Dave J Hogan/Getty Images for Paramount+)

via Getty
LONDON, ENGLAND – JUNE 20: Sylvester Stallone onstage during the Paramount+ UK launch at Outernet London on June 20, 2022 in London, England. (Photo by Dave J Hogan/Getty Images for Paramount+)
A forgotten clip emerges, stirring the boxing and film world alike. Rocky Balboa, fiction’s boxing legend, overshadowed? By whom? The clip, recently resurfaced on Instagram, showcases Sylvester Stallone, the mind and face behind Rocky, making an audacious statement. No, he wasn’t talking about Apollo Creed or Ivan Drago. He was talking real, not reel. The subject? Manny Pacquiao. The claim?
Bold. Unexpected. A claim that could incite passionate debates in every boxing gym and movie theatre. Stallone’s words, carefully chosen yet profoundly surprising, place Pacquiao on a pedestal, possibly higher than Balboa’s. But how high, exactly? It’s not every day you hear Rocky possibly conceding defeat.
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Sylvester Stallone weighs in: An unexpected voice in the Pacquiao legacy
Manny Pacquiao, hailing from the Philippines, stands as a beacon in the world of boxing, his achievements transcending boundaries and expectations. Beginning his journey in a humble milieu, Pacquiao soared to unprecedented heights, becoming the only boxer in history to win titles across eight different weight classes. This unparalleled feat speaks to his adaptability and formidable skill in the ring. Additionally, his transitions between weight classes didn’t just mark participation; they epitomized domination.
His accolades further amplify his prowess. The Boxing Writers Association of America didn’t hesitate to name him the “Fighter of the Decade” for the 2000s, and he gracefully claimed the Lineal Championship in five different weight classes. Such impressive victories and titles solidify his status as a boxing prodigy.
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However, the recent revelation from Sylvester Stallone further magnifies Manny’s stature. With a touch of surprise, Stallone declared, “The best that has ever lived. Best fighter in the last 60, 70 years! Period. For real. Even better than Rocky Balboa.” Coming from Stallone, a figure deeply ingrained in the cinematic boxing realm, this isn’t mere praise. It’s a testament. Stallone’s intimate understanding of boxing, courtesy of his iconic portrayal of Rocky, makes this commendation even more significant.
From silver screen to boxing ring: How ‘Rocky’ fueled Tyson Fury’s ambition?
For many, ‘Rocky‘ is a cinematic journey into the world of boxing. For Tyson Fury, however, it’s much more profound. The saga of Rocky Balboa, emblematic of grit, resilience, and indomitable spirit, deeply resonated with a young Fury, inspiring him to chase his boxing aspirations. “My good friend Sylvester Stallone aka Rocky Balboa, the Italian Stallion. These movies are very inspirational to me,” Fury exclaimed, reflecting on how the iconic films mirrored his dreams.
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Named after the legendary Mike Tyson, Fury found a kindred spirit in Rocky’s story. He celebrated the franchise for not just motivating him, but also for its unparalleled cultural impact, crediting it with drawing numerous enthusiasts to the world of boxing. It’s not just a movie series; for Tyson and many like him, it’s a testament to the power of dreams and the spirit of perseverance.
It’s evident that the impact of the ‘Rocky’ series transcends beyond mere cinematic appreciation. For budding pugilists like Tyson Fury, Rocky Balboa served as a beacon of hope, epitomizing tenacity, spirit, and the unyielding will to rise against all odds. Such is the transformative power of cinema, where reel-life heroes inspire real-life aspirations.
Also Read: Forgotten Photo of Mike Tyson, Sylvester Stallone, and Don King Makes Rounds on the Internet
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Which other films or characters have had a profound impact on your personal or professional journey? We invite our readers to share their stories and inspirations.
Watch this story: All You Need to Know About Sylvester Stallone’s DAZN Deal
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