9 Most Impactful Moments from the Rocky and Creed Franchises

The Underdog's Triumph

The Rocky and Creed franchises have given us some of the most uplifting and inspiring sports films in cinematic history. From iconic training montages to powerful speeches delivered by a loving coach, these films are filled with unforgettable moments that have left a lasting impact on audiences.

Mr. T as Clubber Lang

The first Rocky film, released in 1976, was a real-life testament to the hard work, dedication, and perseverance of the writer and star, Sylvester Stallone. The story of how it was made is a testament to the power of resilience and the pursuit of a dream against all odds.

Jonathan Majors as Diamond Damian Anderson in the ring in Creed III

Since then, the franchise has grown to include a total of six Rocky movies and three Creed films, each showcasing a journey of individual growth, perseverance, dedication, and striving towards a greater goal that is deeply inspiring.

Jonathan Majors as Damian Anderson inside a boxing ring in Creed III.

Rocky's Unforgettable Victory

In a defining moment from the franchise, Rocky wins over the crowd in Russia in Rocky IV. After a grueling fight with Ivan Drago, Rocky's resilience and determination capture the hearts of the Russian crowd, who start chanting his name. This powerful moment symbolizes the triumph of the underdog and the unbreakable spirit of Rocky.

Damian being cheered on by the crowd in Creed III

In another captivating victory, Rocky wins against Apollo Creed in Rocky II. The race to get back up after a brutal fight mirrors the symbolism of their rivalry, with Rocky's tireless determination and Creed's acknowledgment of defeat shaping the future of the series.

Michael B. Jordan as Adonis Creed in Creed III

The Journey of Adonis Creed

Adonis Creed's journey in the franchise is marked by powerful moments, including his fight against Ricky Conlan in Creed. Despite facing a serious beating, Adonis rises up with the motivation to prove himself, supported by the unwavering commitment of his coach, Rocky Balboa. This scene alone solidifies Creed as a worthy sequel to the original franchise.

Michael B Jordan as Adonis Creed inside the ring in Creed III.

Another pivotal moment is when Donnie and Rocky climb the steps of the Philadelphia Art Museum in Creed. This magical moment, filled with nostalgia and new beginnings, captures the essence of the series and the enduring impact of the iconic scene.

Sylvester Stallone as Rocky Balboa boxing Dolph Lundgren as Ivan Drago in Rocky IV

Training Montages: A Symbol of Progress

The training montages in the Rocky and Creed films are iconic and serve as symbols of progress and determination. From the original training montage in Rocky, which defined the franchise, to Donnie's powerful training montage in Creed, these scenes showcase the hard work and dedication that define the characters' journeys.

Rocky and Apollo fight in Rocky II

Donnie's commitment to training, guided by Rocky's wisdom and the mantra of taking 'one step at a time. One punch at a time. One round at a time,' exemplifies the spirit of perseverance and the pursuit of excellence.

An image of Sylvester Stallone as Rocky over an image of Michael B Jordan as Adonis Creed

Heartfelt Bonds and Inspiring Speeches

The heartfelt bonds and inspiring speeches in the films are defining moments that resonate with audiences. From Rocky's inspiring speech to Robert in Rocky Balboa, to the deep relationship between Donnie and Damian in Creed III, these scenes are filled with emotion, tension, and motivation that drive the narrative forward.

Sylvester Stallone and Michael B Jordan as Rocky and Creed looking in a mirror in Creed

The powerful words of encouragement, the sense of camaraderie, and the unwavering belief in oneself are at the heart of these moments, making them unforgettable and deeply impactful.

Sylvester Stallone as Rocky comforting Michael B. Jordan as Donnie in Creed