Mike Tyson established himself as one of the most feared pugilists the world has ever witnessed. And those characteristics were not restricted to his performances inside the boxing ring. It is safe to say Tyson was deserving of the title of ‘The Baddest Man On The Planet‘. Another star who gained immense popularity in the boxing world is Sylvester Stallone, who also became a part of the boxing world through his ‘Rocky‘ franchise. And an old story of the Hollywood superstar refusing a lifetime opportunity to step inside the boxing ring with Mike Tyson has resurfaced.

For Stallone’s iconic performance in the ‘Rocky’ franchise, Tyson was also a fan of the movie series. If reports are to be believed, the former heavyweight champion wanted to be a part of the film Rocky Balboa (2006) and play the role of an antagonist. But, it seems, the Hollywood actor was unwilling to put his life on the line by squaring off against ‘Iron Mike’ even for a movie.

Was Sylvester Stallone scared to fight out Mike Tyson?

It should be noted that, for the franchise, Stallone did work with many professional boxers, such as Antonio Tarver and Dolph Lundgren. But it seems like Tyson’s ferocious inside-the-ring performances left Sylvester Stallone fearful to feature him in the sixth installment of the series. In an interview with ContactMusic, Stallone stated that the former champion repeatedly reached out to him asking for a role in the popular movie franchise.

Stallone said, “Mike wanted to fight me in this film but I thought it was a bad idea. I know I’m not that young, but I’m still too young to die.”

Recognizing Tyson’s enthusiasm, Stallone offered him a compromise – a cameo role at ringside rather than an in-ring clash. Despite Stallone’s reservations and the evident apprehension amongst the crew, Tyson’s persistence paid off, and he secured his cameo role. However, Stallone made it clear that he wanted Tyson kept out of the ring, a testament to the respect and slight fear he held for the formidable boxer. Even though it would’ve been great to see Tyson playing the antagonist in a movie with Stallone, however, one cannot blame ‘Sly’ as his fear was justified. It must be noted that the popular actor was incorporated into the Boxing Hall of Fame for his contribution to the sport via the ‘Rocky’ series.

Fans jump in with their opinions on this untold story

A fan joked and said that Stallone wanted to keep both of his ears. He commented, “Stallone just wanted to keep both of his ears.” Another fan claimed that Stallone learned from his experience with another heavyweight, Joe Frazier. He commented, “He learned from his experience with Joe Frazier; he didn’t want to find out what Mike could do to him if Frazier hurt him.”

One fan wrote, “5’10” of pure violence Giants feared him.”

Another fan thinks Stallone made the right choice. He commented, “Stallone is not stupid.”

Read More: Forgotten Photo of Sylvester Stallone With Legend Mike Tyson Makes Boxing World Nostalgic

A fan commented, “Cops wouldn’t fight Mike even if their lives where in danger .”

What are your thoughts on Stallone’s decision to not square off with Mike, even if it was for a film? Let us know in the comments section below.

Watch This Story: Richest Ex-Girlfriends and Ex-Wives of Mike Tyson