Stallone steps back into the ring

By Joshua Tyler Oct 18, 2005, 0:50 GMT

Stallone as Rocky Balboa

Sylvester Stallone has been hinting for awhile now that he's interested in revisiting the good old days. We've heard rumors that he might do another 'Rocky' and more recently talk of another 'Rambo' followup has heated up.

'Rambo' remains up in the air, but Variety says 'Rocky VI' is a sure thing. Filming starts on the new pic in early 2006, with Stallone reprising the role of working-class hero Rocky Balboa. Sly also wrote all the previous 'Rocky' films, and directed the second one. He'll cover both duties again for this sixth installment.

Stallone says the story will, age-appropriately, pick up the tale of an older, widowed Rocky. When a computer simulation predicts he can beat the reigning world champion, the champion's management challenges him for charity. At first Rocky refuses, but of course Balboa eventually gives in and puts on his gloves. "We'll try to capture the essence of the first couple of films," says Stallone.

It's a project Sly has been struggling to get made for years. It'll take three studios to make it happen. Columbia, Revolution Studios, and MGM are all teaming up to co-produce and co-finance Rocky's next bout.

Though he's also talked about doing another 'Rocky', it looks like Mr. T (who fought in the third film as Clubber Lang) will not return in the new film. Former heavyweight champion Roy Jones Jr. may play Sly's opponent, named Mason Dixon. Sylvester says the rest of the cast will be comprised primarily of unknowns.