Rocky V took the franchise in a different direction, bringing Rocky back to his roots in Philadelphia. While the film had a mixed reception, it still packed in plenty of interesting details, callbacks, and behind-the-scenes surprises. From real-life boxers in the cast to hidden nods to earlier films, here are some of the most interesting Rocky 5 trivia facts.
1. Sage Stallone Plays Rocky Jr.
The young actor who plays Rocky Jr. is Sage Stallone, Sylvester Stallone’s real-life son. Sage was 12 years old during filming and brought a personal dynamic to the father-son storyline. Six years later, Sage and Sly worked together again in the 1996 action thriller Daylight.
2. Tommy Gunn and Union Cane Were Real Boxers
The actors playing Tommy Gunn (Tommy Morrison) and Union Cane (Michael Williams) weren’t just actors—they were real professional boxers. Morrison, who played Rocky’s protégé-turned-rival, went on to win the WBO Heavyweight Title in 1993, proving he was more than just a movie fighter.
3. Real Reporters Played the Press Corps
The reporters asking Rocky questions throughout the film weren’t actors—they were actual journalists from Philadelphia newspapers and TV stations. This made the press conference scenes feel even more authentic.
4. The Famous Red, White, and Blue Boxing Trunks Appear One Last Time
Rocky’s red, white, and blue boxing trunks make their fifth and final appearance in Rocky V. These trunks were originally worn by Apollo Creed in Rocky, then passed on to Rocky in Rocky II, featured again in Rocky III, and used one last time in Rocky IV before being handed to Tommy Gunn in this film.
5. The Golden Glove Necklace Had a Promotional Tie-In
The gold boxing glove necklace, a key symbol in Rocky V, was first introduced in Rocky III, given to Rocky by Mickey as a token of encouragement. It appeared again in Rocky IV before taking center stage in this movie.
For the Hollywood premiere of Rocky V at Grauman’s Chinese Theatre, moviegoers received replica golden glove necklaces as part of a promotional giveaway.
6. George Washington Duke Was Inspired by Don King
The flamboyant and manipulative fight promoter George Washington Duke was based on real-life boxing promoter Don King. From his flashy suits to his catchphrase “Only in America,” the character was a clear nod to King, who managed legendary fighters like Muhammad Ali and Mike Tyson.
7. Rocky’s Real Name Is Robert
In Rocky V, it’s finally revealed that Rocky’s real first name is Robert. This happens when Rocky Jr. introduces himself as “Robert”, confirming the champ’s full name as Robert “Rocky” Balboa.
This wasn’t the first time this detail appeared. In Rocky II, a bubble gum trading card listed his full name as Robert Balboa, but it was never mentioned on-screen until this film.
