Cinema has had a major impact on the public’s view of the sport of boxing. Perhaps one of the biggest contributors to the same, was the ‘Rocky-Creed’ franchise. Moreover, the character Rocky Balboa has also become one of the most iconic on-screen faces of the sport. There were recent reports that ‘Rocky’ star Sylvester Stallone slammed producer Irwin Winkler for withholding the rights to the franchise.

Stallone had previously expressed his displeasure about Winkler holding the absolute rights to the franchise. Moreover, he was also upset that he did not have any ownership of the franchise that he created. Stallone recently shared a rather intriguing picture on Instagram detailing the scenario. In fact, the picture was an artwork depicting Winkler as a snake with a knife-like tongue.

In the caption, he also wrote, “A VERY Flattering portrait of The Great Rocky/ Creed Producer, IRWIN WINKLER, from one of the country‘s greatest artist … ALSO after IRWIN controlling ROCKY for over 47 years, and now CREED. I really would like to have at least a little WHAT’s LEFT of my RIGHTS back, before passing it on to ONLY YOUR CHILDREN.”

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Stallone also added that doing so would be a kind gesture from the ’93-year-old gentleman’. And, that it is a ‘painful subject’ that troubles his soul. Additionally, he also mentioned that he wishes to leave a bit of the legacy for his children as well.

Fans react to Sylvester Stallone slamming Irwin Winkler

Sylvester Stallone received a lot of support from fans for his statement. In fact, many fans took to social media to share their thoughts.

User @ch3fbezos commended Stallone for speaking up, saying, “Sly speaking up! That’s y he’s the best !”

Meanwhile, user Layla Nazakina also credited Stallone for the success of the Creed franchise. She said, “If you were not in Creed, he definitely would not have been so successful.”

On the other hand, user Mark D. Ginex was doubtful of this scenario’s influence on future films, he asked, “Is this the main reason why you won’t be in Creed III?”

Similarly, a user named Victor also felt the same about the scenario affecting the franchise. The user asked, “Was there any issue related to CREED III?”

However, user John McCurry felt that the franchise should be solely owned by Stallone. He said, “The rights should be yours Sly. Rocky and all the characters are your creation. Too much of this BS.”

Deontay Wilder in Creed 3

Clubber Lang was one of Rocky Balboa’s most formidable opponents. Meanwhile, it was recently reported that one of Stallone’s choice to play the iconic antagonist’s son was none other than the heavyweight phenomenon, Deontay Wilder.

Lang was portrayed by the American actor and wrestler, Mr. T in Rocky III. And, Lang ended up being one of the most feared antagonists of the franchise. In fact, Wilder had recently expressed his desire to venture into acting, and play the character’s son. Moreover, Stallone was also interested in the prospective role. He also added that Wilder was open to audition, saying, “The answer is yes…come one, come all.”

However, Stallone also jokingly stated that the 6 feet 7 inches tall heavyweight is not tall enough for the role.

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What do you think of Stallone owning the Rocky and Creed franchises? Let us know in the comments below.