Sylvester stallone wanted to make sure the boxing scenes looked real in rocky iv so he instructed dolph lundgren to actually hit him a punch to the chest left stallone in intensive care for four days

Sylvester Stallone: The Intense Reality Behind the Boxing Scenes in "Rocky IV"

When it comes to iconic movie franchises, few can match the enduring popularity and cultural impact of the “Rocky” series. A key reason behind its success is the dedication of its star and creator, Sylvester Stallone. Stallone’s commitment to authenticity took a groundbreaking turn during the filming of “Rocky IV,” as he wanted the boxing scenes to look as real as possible. As a result, he made a bold decision that would change the course of his own health.

Instructing his co-star, Dolph Lundgren, who portrayed the formidable Ivan Drago, Stallone famously told him to deliver actual punches during their boxing scenes together. This request was driven by Stallone’s relentless pursuit of capturing the raw intensity and authentic emotions that the sport embodies. His desire to deliver a visually stunning and genuinely gripping film pushed him to push his limits like never before.

However, Stallone’s insistence on realism came at a great personal cost. During one particularly powerful punch delivered by Lundgren, Stallone took a direct hit to the chest that resulted in him being rushed to the intensive care unit (ICU) for an arduous four-day stay. The punch caused significant damage, exacerbating Stallone’s existing health issues and requiring immediate medical attention.

This daring move not only showcases Stallone’s unwavering commitment to his craft but also highlights the physical toll actors are willing to endure to make their performances truly memorable. “Rocky IV” became a testament to Stallone’s dedication and willingness to take risks, resulting in some of the most realistic boxing scenes ever captured on film.

It is worth noting that while Stallone’s dedication to realism was uncompromising, the health risks involved cannot be dismissed. The aftermath of this intense punch demonstrated the physical dangers that actors, even with necessary precautions, can face during the pursuit of authentic storytelling.

Source: Fox News