If you loved the adrenaline-pumping action and underdog spirit of 'Rocky IV,' you're in for a treat! This article highlights 10 movies and shows that capture the same intense training montages, fierce rivalries, and triumphant victories. Whether you're a die-hard fan of the Rocky franchise or just love a good sports drama, these picks will keep you on the edge of your seat.

Rocky (1976)
Description: A classic underdog story set in the world of boxing, focusing on perseverance, personal growth, and the struggle to overcome adversity.
Fact: The film was shot in just 28 days on a budget of under $1 million. The iconic training montage was filmed at the Philadelphia Museum of Art.


Rocky II (1979)
Description: Continues the story of a boxer's journey, emphasizing redemption, personal challenges, and the drive to prove oneself in the ring.
Fact: The final fight scene took three weeks to film. Sylvester Stallone insisted on performing his own stunts, leading to several injuries.


Rocky III (1982)
Description: Explores themes of rivalry, legacy, and the transition from underdog to champion, with intense boxing sequences and emotional depth.
Fact: Mr. T was cast as Clubber Lang after Stallone saw him on TV as a wrestler. The film features the famous 'Eye of the Tiger' song by Survivor.


Million Dollar Baby (2004)
Description: A poignant boxing drama that explores mentorship, sacrifice, and the emotional and physical toll of the sport.
Fact: The film was adapted from a series of short stories by F.X. Toole. Hilary Swank trained for months to convincingly portray a boxer.


Rocky Balboa (2006)
Description: A story of an aging fighter returning to the ring, highlighting themes of resilience, legacy, and the enduring spirit of competition.
Fact: The film was inspired by real-life events where an older George Foreman made a boxing comeback. The final fight was choreographed to look as realistic as possible.


The Fighter (2010)
Description: A gritty boxing drama based on a true story, focusing on family dynamics, personal redemption, and the harsh realities of the sport.
Fact: Christian Bale lost 30 pounds for his role. The real-life Micky Ward and Dicky Eklund were heavily involved in the production.


Creed III (2023)
Description: A story about facing past traumas, personal growth, and the complexities of friendship and rivalry in the boxing arena.
Fact: This marks the directorial debut of Michael B. Jordan. The film uses IMAX cameras for the boxing sequences to enhance the immersive experience.


Southpaw (2015)
Description: A tale of a boxer's fall and rise, dealing with loss, personal demons, and the fight to reclaim his life and career.
Fact: Jake Gyllenhaal trained for five months to transform his body for the role. The film's boxing scenes were praised for their realism.


Creed (2015)
Description: A modern take on the boxing drama, focusing on legacy, mentorship, and the personal struggles of a young fighter seeking his own identity.
Fact: The film was shot in a documentary-style to give it a raw, authentic feel. Michael B. Jordan trained for over a year to prepare for his role.


Creed II (2018)
Description: Delves into family rivalries, personal demons, and the weight of expectations in the boxing world, with high-stakes matches.
Fact: Dolph Lundgren reprised his role as Ivan Drago from Rocky IV. The film explores the emotional toll of boxing on families.
