**Spoiler Warning – ‘Creed II’ details will be discussed, but only briefly. You’ve been warned.**
It’s been over 40 years since Rocky Balboa, and by proxy Sylvester Stallone, became an instant icon thanks to the film “Rocky.” Over the decades, the underdog boxer has fought Mr. T, a Russian powerhouse, Apollo Creed (twice), and even cancer. But now, thanks to Michael B. Jordan and the folks behind the new “Creed” franchise, Stallone is ready to hang up the gloves for good.
In a new video posted to Instagram, Stallone addresses the cast and crew of “Creed II” (presumably while on set) and explains that the journey has been fantastic but the story of Rocky Balboa is finally done.
READ MORE: ‘Creed II’ Is Another Triumphant Legacy-Focused Title Bout With Tons Of Heart [Review]
He said:
“Well, this is probably my last rodeo because what I thought happened, and has happened, I never expected. I thought ‘Rocky’ was over in 2006 [‘Rocky Balboa’]. And I was very happy with that. Then all of a sudden, this young man presented himself and the whole story changed. It went on to a new generation. New problems. New adventures. And I couldn’t be happier as I step back because my story has been told, there’s a whole new world that’s going to be opening up with the audience, with this generation…Now you, [Michael B. Jordan], have to carry the mantle.”
Now, if you’ve seen “Creed II,” this announcement probably won’t come as any surprise. The ending of the film made it obvious that “Rock” had passed the proverbial torch to the younger Adonis. By defeating his past demons, including mending fences with family, Stallone put a bow on the Balboa story in a truly moving way. So instead of the aforementioned “Rocky Balboa,” which left fans a little unsatisfied, “Creed” and its sequel have given the character a send-off worthy of his iconic status.
In the caption to the video, Stallone continues, “It’s been my Ultimate privilege to have been able to create and play this meaningful character. Though it breaks my heart, Sadly all things must pass… and end. I love you Kind and generous people, and The most wonderful thing of all, is that ROCKY will never die because he lives on in you ….”
With “Creed II” breaking records this last weekend at the box office, the only question remains is where Michael B. Jordan, Ryan Coogler, and Steven Caple, Jr. take the character in the future. Because now is truly the time that Adonis Creed can create his own legacy.
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