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Stallone squares up for Rocky VI
By Richard Simpson, Daily Mail Last updated at 00:00am on 13.10.05
Sylvester Stallone as Rocky
His last bout was with his protègèturned-rival Tommy Gunn in Rocky V.
Now, more than 15 years on - and 30 years since first putting on his boxing gloves - Rocky Balboa is making another comeback.
Hollywood sources confirmed last night that Sylvester Stallone has agreed to star in the sixth instalment of the Rocky saga.
Filming starts in Los Angeles in December and Stallone, who will turn 60 next year, is also lined up to direct.
A spokesman from the star's agent Paul Bloch said: 'There is a script, but it has yet to get the green light.'
This is industry-speak for Stallone being in advanced talks, but having yet to officially announce his commitment to the project.
In Rocky VI, a lonely, poverty-stricken Balboa comes out of retirement and looks to keep his hand in with a few low-profile fights.
But his return to the ring causes a media frenzy and a promoter comes up with the idea that he should fight the heavyweight champion, Mason 'The Line' Dixon.
Stallone is understood to have been back in the gym in preparation for the role.
Although the film is to be made in Los Angeles, it is unclear whether it will be set in Rocky's hometown of Philadelphia. The supporting cast has not been announced.
Rocky will signal something of a renaissance for 59-year- old Stallone, who will turn 60 during filming, and comes as he attempts to revive his other career-defining role, Rambo.
The fourth film in that series is currently in pre-production and will also be produced by Stallone.
The actor became one of Hollywood's highest-paid leading men as the monosyllabic Rocky.
For the first film, in 1976, he was paid just £15,000. But for each sequel he got a huge pay rise - and for Rocky V he earned £10million.
His last role was a cameo in last year's Sky Kids 3. Previously, he had failed to set the box office alight with D-Tox, Driven and the remake of Get Carter.
Reader views (8)
When will Rocky 7 come out?
- Alejandro, Newark Minnesota
been a big fan of sly for years stallone there is know doubt he has looked around him and seen nobody to match him and he is a very intellegent man which no other man/women can match he is someone who must be a genius to come this far and still be on top of the world good luck sly.
- Jdiamond, glasgow/scotland
I have been a Rocky fan since being a young child, I am 27 now and I still watch all the films as I have the box set! There is something special about the story as in each film I feel Rocky is sending out a moral meaning and he has a way of touching the heart with passion, tragedy and glory. I hope Rocky 7,8 and 9 come out because I feel there is a few more rounds for Rocky to fight, not just in the ring, but in life too! LONG LIVE STALLONE!
- Michael Devaney, Manchester England
Stallone just keeps getting better. Can't wait til the new one. I was born in 1975 when it al began. What a memorable year!
- Bonnie, Australia
I cant wait to see the film. I can watch all the Rocky's and still get excited when I hear the Rocky theme. Rocky Rules!
- Nora, Fresno, California
Fantastic cant wait! Rocky's the king!
- Phil Brown, UK
It's about time Rocky made his comeback. There were five (5) movies between 1976 and 1990. Now, in 2006 - a 16-year gap - he's back. I think this should have been Rocky #8 or 9 by now but at least he's back. Maybe because Stallone's roles haven't panned out the way he thought but regardless, he's back in the biggest role of his career. Living just outside of downtown Philly, I can tell you first hand that the hype between Invincible and Rocky this year has been great. Philly will definitely be celebrating two heroes - Vince Papale and Rocky. Not to mention M. Night Shamalian's desire to film in Bucks County, PA and the other recently retired hero - Bernard Hopkins. What a great year for entertainment in Philly.
Yo Sly - You Did It! (keep 'em coming)
- Tony, Aston, PA
Rocky is the bomb.
- William Krahnke, Milaca,MN
