Which Rocky Balboa Fight Is Actually The Best?

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Here's the most exciting, realistic, and emotional fight in the Rocky franchise. Throughout the years, Sylvester Stallone's Rocky Balboa went through grueling physical challenges that put his body and mind to the test. Every match required him to push his limits, as life and honor were always at stake.

Rocky proved his worth as the underdog in 1976's Rocky, cemented himself as a real boxer in Rocky II and Rocky III, represented his country in Rocky IV, protected his legacy in Rocky V and Rocky Balboa, and passed on the torch in the Creed movies. Rocky's motivation was different each time he stepped into the ring, and every boxer Rocky fought had a unique set of skills. This led to very distinctive fights where victory wasn't guaranteed for the Italian Stallion.

Related: Who Is The Rocky Franchise's Best Boxing Trainer? Why It's Not Balboa

Every fight in the Rocky franchise has its own charm. Some are more grounded than the rest, while others are more brutal or emotional. But taking into account every element that makes a boxing match unforgettable, there's one Rocky installment that beats the rest. Here's which one comes out on top.

When focusing on the technical details, it's easy to see that most Rocky fights are unrealistic in some way or another. Most attacks are far too clean, the matches always last long enough for a climactic resolution, and Rocky builds a legendary career even though he rarely protects his face. This is especially clear in Rocky IV, where Ivan Drago is able to kill Apollo Creed, but fails to beat Rocky with the same amount of strength in fifteen rounds. Similarly, Mason Dixon is far too brutal while fighting an older Rocky in Rocky Balboa, though Rocky's final fight does reflect how chaotic