Sylvester Stallone, the iconic actor best known for his roles in the “Rocky” series, recently paid homage to his late colleague and ‘Rocky III’ co-star, Hulk Hogan. Stallone reminisced about their time together on set, describing Hogan as a “magician” in fight scenes. The two actors formed a bond while working on the 1982 film, with Stallone praising Hogan’s presence and professionalism.
The news of Hogan’s passing at the age of 71 on July 24 deeply saddened Stallone, prompting him to share his memories of the wrestling legend in a recent interview. Stallone recounted their initial meeting during rehearsals for ‘Rocky III’ in the early 1980s, where he was immediately struck by Hogan’s charisma and aura. Stallone reminisced, saying, “He just came in, and you knew this guy had a glow about him. He was a force to be reckoned with.”
Despite initial doubts about Hogan’s suitability for the role of Thunderlips due to his imposing stature, Stallone stood by his decision to cast the larger-than-life wrestler in the film. Stallone recalled Hogan’s dedication to making the fight scenes as authentic and impactful as possible, highlighting his physical prowess and meticulous attention to detail. Stallone praised Hogan for his accuracy and precision in choreographing the fight sequences, emphasizing the wrestler’s unique talent.
Stallone’s admiration for Hogan extended beyond their on-screen collaboration, as he shared anecdotes that showcased Hogan’s athleticism and commitment to his craft. Stallone recounted an incident during filming where Hogan surprised him with a gravity-defying leap, leaving Stallone in awe of his agility and skill. Despite the physical demands of their scenes together, Stallone commended Hogan for his professionalism and willingness to go above and beyond to deliver memorable performances.
The camaraderie between Stallone and Hogan was evident in the way they worked together to bring their characters to life on the big screen. Stallone’s tribute to Hogan highlighted not only the wrestler’s physical prowess but also his larger-than-life personality and infectious energy. The bond forged between Stallone and Hogan during their time on ‘Rocky III’ has left an indelible mark on Stallone, who fondly remembers their shared experiences with admiration and respect.
As fans mourn the loss of Hulk Hogan, Stallone’s heartfelt tribute serves as a reminder of the impact Hogan had both on and off the screen. The enduring legacy of their collaboration in ‘Rocky III’ continues to resonate with audiences, showcasing the talents of two entertainment titans who left an indelible mark on the world of cinema. Stallone’s reflections on Hogan’s remarkable career and character honour the memory of a beloved and revered figure in the world of sports and entertainment.