Rocky: Every Final Fight Ranked Worst To Best
2. Rocky Vs. Apollo Creed (Rocky II)
The rematch between Rocky and Apollo was originally meant to happen, but it was inevitable that Apollo would ask the underdog back for round two. It's a far better fight than its predecessor.
Crafted with the same thrilling choreography, brought to searing life by Stallone's direction and a series of furious punch-outs and tense slow-motion, the Rocky II finale brings Balboa to his full potential, as he finally bests the ruthless champ in a war that brings them both to their bloody knees.
The fact that this pair are so equally matched and eager to prove themselves -- Apollo wants to prove Rocky's previous fight was a fluke, Rocky the opposite -- makes the entire battle soar with a gritty unpredictability and aggression that still feels ruthless to this day.