Rocky universe in order Rocky Marathon
Page Last Modified:
4 December 2025
Most Recent Release:
Creed III - 2023
Total Runtime:
1015 Minutes
Total Items:
9
Average User Score:
(7)Watching orders for Rocky
Rocky universe in order
Whether you're diving into the world of Rocky for the first time or craving a rewatch with a hefty dose of adrenaline, this Rocky universe marathon is pure cinematic fuel. Picture the rousing "Gonna Fly Now" tune, the steps of the Philadelphia Museum of Art, and the legendary bouts from Rocky Balboa to Adonis Creed. With so many films from the original Rocky (1976) to Creed II, figuring out the best viewing order can be a puzzle. Especially if you don't want to miss any epic training scenes or the generational connections. So, grab your popcorn, hang up your boxing gloves, and let us guide you through the perfect order for your Rocky universe marathon.
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1
Rocky Movie 120 min. 1976Rocky Balboa is a Philadelphia club fighter who seems to be going nowhere. But when a stroke of fate puts him in the ring with a world heavyweight champion, Rocky knows that it's his one shot at the big time — a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to go the distance and come out a winner!USER SCORE 8 -
2
Rocky II Movie 119 min. 1979After Rocky goes the distance with champ Apollo Creed, both try to put the fight behind them and move on. Rocky settles down with Adrian but can't put his life together outside the ring, while Creed seeks a rematch to restore his reputation. Soon enough, the "Master of Disaster" and the "Italian Stallion" are set on a collision course for a climactic battle that is brutal and unforgettable.USER SCORE 7 -
3
Rocky III Movie 100 min. 1982Following Rocky Balboa's intense battle with his most powerful adversary yet – the ferocious Clubber Lang – Rocky joins forces with former rival Apollo Creed in an effort to get back his fighting spirit.USER SCORE 7 -
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Rocky IV Movie 91 min. 1985Rocky Balboa holds the world heavyweight championship, but a new challenger has stepped forward: Drago, a six-foot-four, 261-pound fighter who has the backing of the Soviet Union. This time, Rocky's training regimen takes him to Siberia, where he prepares for a globally televised match in the heart of Moscow. But nothing can truly prepare him for what he's about to face – a fight to the finish, in which he must defend not only himself, but also the honor of his country!USER SCORE 7 -
5
Rocky V Movie 104 min. 1990A lifetime of taking shots has ended Rocky’s career, and a crooked accountant has left him broke. Inspired by the memory of his trainer, however, Rocky finds glory in training and takes on an up-and-coming boxer.USER SCORE 6 -
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Rocky Balboa Movie 102 min. 2006When he loses a highly publicized virtual boxing match to ex-champ Rocky Balboa, reigning heavyweight titleholder Mason Dixon retaliates by challenging the Italian Stallion to a 10-round exhibition bout. To the surprise of his son and friends, Rocky agrees to come out of retirement and face an opponent who's faster, stronger and thirty years his junior. Rocky takes on Dixon in what will become the greatest fight in boxing history!USER SCORE 7 -
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Creed Movie 133 min. 2015The former World Heavyweight Champion Rocky Balboa serves as a trainer and mentor to Adonis Johnson, the son of his late friend and former rival Apollo Creed.USER SCORE 7 -
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Creed II Movie 130 min. 2018Between personal obligations and training for his next big fight against an opponent with ties to his family's past, Adonis Creed is up against the challenge of his life.USER SCORE 7 -
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Creed III Movie 116 min. 2023After dominating the boxing world, Adonis Creed has thrived in his career and family life. When a childhood friend and former boxing prodigy, Damian Anderson, resurfaces after serving a long sentence in prison, he is eager to prove that he deserves his shot in the ring. The face-off between former friends is more than just a fight. To settle the score, Adonis must put his future on the line to battle Damian — a fighter with nothing to lose.USER SCORE 7
Rocky (1976)
This is where it all begins. Directed by John G. Avildsen and written by and starring Sylvester Stallone, Rocky introduces us to the ultimate underdog: Rocky Balboa, an amateur boxer from Philadelphia who gets a shot at the undefeated champion Apollo Creed (played by Carl Weathers). It's raw, sincere, and inspiring, setting the tone for the entire Rocky franchise. With unforgettable characters like Adrian (Talia Shire), Paulie (Burt Young), and Mickey (Burgess Meredith), it's essential viewing to truly appreciate the rest.
Rocky II (1979)
Picking up right after the first film, Rocky II dives into the aftermath of Rocky's fight with Apollo. Stallone takes the director's chair, elevating the personal drama. The film deepens Rocky's relationship with Adrian and explores his struggles with fame, health, and the idea of leaving the ring for good. But as expected, the ring isn't ready to let Rocky go. This sequel is crucial as it shows how a legend is forged both inside and outside the ring.
Rocky III (1982)
Enter Clubber Lang, brilliantly portrayed by Mr. T. In Rocky III, Balboa is now a seasoned champion, but success brings vulnerability. With unexpected mentorship from Apollo Creed himself, Rocky learns what it means to be hungry again. The film delivers iconic moments, from the beach training scene to the legendary "Eye of the Tiger" montage. Rocky III is pure 80s power, filled with boxing choreography, emotional beats, and intense rivalries.
Rocky IV (1985)
The Cold War in cinematic form. Rocky IV is perhaps the most stylistically daring and politically charged film in the series. With Dolph Lundgren as the icy Ivan Drago, the fight transcends sport: it's East versus West, machine versus man. The snowy training, the robot, and the soundtrack are quintessentially 80s. Beneath the montages and muscles lies a story of loss, honor, and the true meaning of fighting.
Rocky V (1990)
Rocky V is arguably the most controversial installment. Director John G. Avildsen returns, bringing back the raw sentiment of the original. Rocky loses his health and fortune, returning to South Philly. He trains young Tommy Gunn (played by real-life boxer Tommy Morrison), but gets entangled in fame, loyalty, and fatherhood. It's a step away from the ring, but a pivotal chapter in Rocky's character development.
Rocky Balboa (2006)
Two decades after his last fight, Rocky returns in style. Sylvester Stallone reprises his roles as writer, director, and star in a film with more heart than hype. In Rocky Balboa, the Italian Stallion grapples with aging, loss, and his place in the world. Yet, the call of the ring remains strong. This film is pure melancholy, with a surprisingly powerful ending and a strong bond with his son Robert Balboa Jr. (Milo Ventimiglia). It marks the end of one era and paves the way for a new one.
Creed (2015)
A fresh start with deep roots. Ryan Coogler revitalizes the universe with Creed, starring Michael B. Jordan as Adonis Creed, Apollo's son. Rocky becomes his mentor, and their dynamic is pure gold. The film blends modern cinematography and boxing choreography with the DNA of the original series. It's not just a sequel, but a tribute and the dawn of a new legend.
Creed II (2018)
Thought the Drago rivalry was over? Think again. Creed II brings everything full circle: paternal legacies, old traumas, and the cycle of violence. Viktor Drago (Florian Munteanu) enters the ring, coached by his father Ivan, making it personal for Adonis. Director Steven Caple Jr. expertly balances action and emotion. And yes, Rocky's role as a mentor remains heartwarming.
Creed III (2023)
The first film without Stallone on screen, yet his influence is undeniable. Michael B. Jordan makes his directorial debut with Creed III, bringing an intense, personal rivalry to life with Damian Anderson (Jonathan Majors). The film delves into Adonis' past and his fears for the future, showcasing how the weight of a legacy can make or break you. With impressive boxing scenes and a strong visual style, this chapter closes the trilogy with flair and impact.
Why This Order Works
Watching the films in this order allows you to follow the chronological growth of Rocky and Adonis, as well as the evolution of themes, boxing techniques, film style, and generational conflicts. Both the Rocky and Creed franchises are rooted in underdog boxing stories. While Rocky is about survival, Creed explores identity. Each installment builds on the last, letting you witness not only the characters' growth but perhaps a bit of your own.
Tips for Your Rocky Universe Marathon
You could power through this marathon in a single weekend (go you!), but a better approach is to spread it over several evenings. The original Rocky films are slower, ideal for when you're in the mood for classic drama. The Creed films are modern and faster-paced, perfect for an energetic movie night. Bonus points if you squeeze in a quick workout during the training montages. And don't forget to put "Gonna Fly Now" on repeat when grabbing snacks.
Ready to Rumble?
Whether you're here for nostalgia or the high-stakes battles of Adonis Creed, this Rocky universe marathon is a must for fans of boxing drama films, inspirational sports stories, and everything in between. You'll embark on a complete journey, from Mickey's gym to the ring in LA, from a Philly kid to a champion's son. So gather your friends, queue up the film series, and remember: it's not about how hard you hit. It's about how much you can take and keep moving forward.