Rocky IV (1985)
Rocky IV is one of the most iconic entries in the Rocky franchise, blending Cold War tension with emotional drama and explosive boxing action. The story begins several years after Rocky Balboa reclaimed the heavyweight championship. He is living a peaceful life with his wife Adrian, his son, and his close friend and former rival Apollo Creed.
Meanwhile, the Soviet Union introduces a new, seemingly unstoppable boxer: Ivan Drago (Dolph Lundgren). Drago is a massive, intimidating fighter whose power comes from intense scientific training and state-sponsored enhancement. Determined to prove Soviet superiority, Drago and his handlers challenge Rocky to an exhibition match. Before Rocky can respond, Apollo—longing for the spotlight and feeling overshadowed by time—accepts the fight instead, insisting he must defend his pride and identity.
Rocky reluctantly supports Apollo, but the match quickly becomes brutal. Drago’s sheer strength overwhelms Apollo, and despite Rocky’s pleas to stop the fight, Apollo refuses to quit. In one devastating blow, Drago kills Apollo in the ring, declaring coldly, “If he dies, he dies.” Crushed by guilt and grief, Rocky vows to challenge Drago himself—not just for revenge, but to honor Apollo’s memory.
Rocky announces that the fight will take place in Moscow on Christmas Day. He travels to the Soviet Union with Duke, Apollo’s loyal trainer, and endures harsh, unfriendly conditions. Rocky trains in the frozen Russian wilderness using raw, old-school methods—chopping wood, running through snow, lifting stones—while Drago continues his advanced, machine-driven training in a government-controlled facility. This contrast highlights the heart-versus-science theme of the film.
As Rocky pushes his body to the limit, he confronts his anger, guilt, and fear. He realizes the fight isn’t just about Apollo—it’s about proving that personal courage and heart matter more than technology or political ideology.
Fight night arrives, and the arena is filled with hostile Soviet spectators. Drago dominates early, using his superhuman power to punish Rocky. But Rocky refuses to fall. With every round, he absorbs the blows and slowly begins to break Drago’s will. Rocky’s relentless determination earns respect from the Soviet crowd, who start chanting his name. In a climactic final barrage, Rocky defeats Drago by knockout.
The film ends with Rocky addressing the crowd and the world, delivering a heartfelt message about understanding and change. His victory becomes more than a boxing triumph—it becomes a symbolic moment of unity during the Cold War.
