Rocky II: The Ultimate Guide
Introduction: The Ultimate Rocky II Breakdown
If you thought Rocky Balboa was done after going the distance in the first fight, think again. Rocky II isn’t just a sequel—it’s a war. The underdog story continues as Rocky faces his toughest battle yet: proving to himself (and the world) that he’s not just some lucky bum who went the distance. This is the fight that cements his legacy.
But let’s get real—where to watch Rocky 2? Is it streaming? Can you buy it? We’ve got all the answers. Plus, we’re breaking down behind-the-scenes secrets, filming locations, and the legendary rematch that had fans on their feet. Keep reading to find everything you need to know about Rocky II.
Where to Watch Rocky II
Looking to watch Rocky II? It’s available to rent or buy on Amazon Prime Video, and it also rotates on various streaming services like Netflix, Hulu, Pluto TV, and Apple TV—so check your favorite platform.
Wanna own it? Get Rocky 2 on blu ray HD. But if you’re a die-hard fan, grab the Rocky Heavyweight Collection Blu-ray from the shop and own the whole saga.
Either way, get ready for one of the greatest rematches in movie history.
Rocky II Fight Breakdown: The Apollo Rematch
This wasn’t just a fight—it was a war. Rocky’s first fight with Apollo Creed was a miracle, but the rematch? That was pure heart and determination.
- Round 1: Apollo comes in fast, unloading everything. Rocky takes a beating.
- Middle Rounds: Creed lands clean shots, but Rocky refuses to stay down.
- Final Round: The double knockdown moment. They both fall—but only one gets up.
Rocky fans know this isn’t just about winning—it’s about showing heart, outlasting the odds, and proving that hard work beats talent when talent doesn’t work hard.
Behind the Scenes of Rocky II
What made Rocky II so special? It wasn’t just another sequel—it was a brutal, emotional return to the ring. Here’s what you didn’t know:
- Stallone trained harder than ever to look more like a real heavyweight.
- During filming, Stallone suffered multiple injuries, including a pectoral tear and blows that left him bruised and battered.
- The training montage? Stallone ran up the steps with hundreds of real local fans chasing him.
Sly wrote, directed, and bled for this one. And you can see it in every frame.
Rocky II Insider Content
Mary Anne Creed: Apollo Creed’s Wife in the Rocky and Creed Films
Mary Anne Creed is one of the most quietly important characters in the Rocky and Creed franchises — both on screen and behind the scenes. Across four decades and two generations of fans, three actresses have brought her to life, each adding a layer to a woman who...
Robert Balboa Jr: The Untold Story of Rocky’s Son
Explore Robert Balboa Jr’s complete timeline in the Rocky films: from his birth in 1976 to his life in Creed II with his son Logan.
Exclusive! Singer DeEtta Little-West Interview on “Gonna Fly Now”
Exclusive interview with the multi-talented DeEtta Little, singer featured on the soundtracks for ROCKY and ROCKY II.
Rocky II Filming Locations
Independence Hall
(Philadelphia) Located in “Center City”, downtown Philly, Independence Hall is often referred to as the birthplace of America, but we like to think of it as the place where Rocky jumped the park bench.
The Philadelphia Zoo
Take ‘er to da zoo. Or propose to her here, in front of Mr. Tiger’s cage. Even if you’re not ready to propose, the Philly Zoo is an amazing place to visit, and one of the most popular in the city.
Mighty Mick’s Gym
(Philadelphia) It’s Mickey Goldmill’s grungy gym near the pet shop, the spot where Rocky trains – and loses his locker.
Rocky II Fast Facts
If you’re searching for where to watch Rocky II, how far Rocky ran in Rocky II, or what songs made the Rocky II soundtrack unforgettable, you’ve come to the right place.
This film isn’t just a sequel—it’s a comeback story that cements Rocky Balboa as a legend. From training in the streets of Philly to facing Apollo Creed in one of the most intense rematches in movie history, Rocky II is packed with moments every fan should know.
Who did Rocky fight in Rocky II?
How far did Rocky run in Rocky 2?
Rocky’s training montage in Rocky 2 is one of the most iconic moments in sports movie history. But just how far did he actually run through the streets of Philadelphia? Based on fan calculations and real-world mapping, Rocky’s legendary sprint covered roughly 30.61 miles—longer than a marathon! He starts in South Philly, runs through Center City, past City Hall, and ends at the Philadelphia Museum of Art, conquering the famous Rocky Steps. Talk about endurance.
Where was Rocky II filmed?
Most of Rocky II was shot in Philadelphia, the heart of the franchise. The Philadelphia Museum of Art steps are iconic, and Rocky’s home in South Philly remains a fan favorite. The final fight was filmed at The Spectrum Arena, a legendary boxing venue. Many local streets, gyms, and neighborhoods give the film its gritty, authentic feel.
What songs are on the Rocky II soundtrack?
The Rocky II soundtrack carries the same energy as the first film, featuring some of the most recognizable themes in cinema history. “Gonna Fly Now” is back, fueling another legendary training montage. “Conquest” delivers pure adrenaline, driving the intensity of the final battle. “Redemption” sets the emotional tone, building up to Rocky’s ultimate victory.
How does Rocky II end?
Rocky II – How the Sequel Took the Underdog Story Further
When Rocky 2 hit theaters in 1979, the Italian Stallion wasn’t just back in the ring—he was still chasing the one thing just out of reach: the heavyweight championship. If Rocky was about proving he could go the distance, Rocky 2 was about proving he could win.
Picking up right where the first film left off, Rocky 2 throws us straight into the aftermath of that brutal showdown with Apollo Creed. But this time, Rocky isn’t just fighting in the ring—he’s fighting for his future. With marriage, fatherhood, and the struggle to make a living outside the ropes, Balboa faces a new kind of opponent: real life. Of course, it’s not long before Apollo Creed demands a rematch, forcing Rocky back into training mode for the biggest fight of his life.
And that’s when the Rocky 2 training montage kicks into high gear. This is the movie that gave us some of the most legendary moments in the franchise—like the famous Chicken Chase drill and Rocky’s run through Philadelphia, leading a pack of kids through the city streets. With Adrian’s whispered “Win”, Rocky steps back into the ring, setting up one of the most intense and heart-pounding fights in sports movie history.
Meet the Rocky 2 Cast
The Rocky 2 cast brings back the heavy hitters who made the first film a classic.
Sylvester Stallone leads the charge as the heart and soul of the story, with Carl Weathers stepping back into the ring as the fierce and flashy Apollo Creed. Talia Shire returns as Adrian, the quiet strength behind the fighter, while Burt Young and Burgess Meredith deliver knockout support as Paulie and Mickey. Even Stallone’s real-life dog Butkus gets a spot on the roster.
Rating: PG
Runtime: 1h 59min
Release Date: June 15, 1979
Genre: Drama, Sport
| Actor | Character |
|---|---|
| Sylvester Stallone | Rocky Balboa |
| Carl Weathers | Apollo Creed |
| Talia Shire | Adrian Balboa |
| Burt Young | Paulie |
| Burgess Meredith | Mickey Goldmill |
| Butkus Stallone | Butkus (Rocky’s Dog) |