(Mickey) “You ever fight a dinosaur?” (Rocky) “No, not lately.”
Following in Bob Hope’s footsteps, Rocky accepts an exhibition challenge to battle a giant wrestler for charity. In Rocky III, the Italian Stallion steps into the ring with Thunderlips, “The Ultimate Male,” played by none other than Hulk Hogan in his first on-screen role. But while the film makes it seem like this wild charity fight happens in Philadelphia, the truth is, the action was actually filmed at the Los Angeles Convention Center—a venue that has hosted entertainment icons for decades.
Filming at the Los Angeles Convention Center
The scene kicks off with a quick shot of the Los Angeles Convention Center marquee, featuring a banner for the City Youth League’s Battle of Champions: Rocky Balboa vs. Thunderlips. The filmmakers intentionally obscure most of the signage to maintain the illusion that the event takes place in Philly, but sharp-eyed fans can catch glimpses of the real location in the background.
What Happened to the Filming Location?
The Los Angeles Convention Center has made its mark in Hollywood, appearing in several major films over the years. The original version—where Rocky III filmed—was later remodeled, but before its transformation, it hosted scenes from Face/Off (1997) and The Net (1995). After its renovation, the updated structure was used in sci-fi blockbusters like Stallone’s Demolition Man (1993), where it stood in for futuristic “San Angeles,” and Starship Troopers (1997), where it became a spaceport.
If you were hoping to visit this Rocky III filming location, here’s the bad news: nothing remains of its original look. A rare Los Angeles tornado in 1983 led to major renovations, and in the years since, the Los Angeles Convention Center has been completely remodeled. Sadly, any trace of its Rocky history is long gone.
Final Round: What’s Left to See?
Unlike other Rocky locations—like the steps of the Philadelphia Museum of Art—there’s nothing left to visit here. But if you ever find yourself at the Los Angeles Convention Center, just know that you’re standing where Rocky Balboa and Thunderlips once clashed in one of the most over-the-top fights in movie history.
