More of Sly in Paris!

SZoner, Alex aka "LotofSly" sent in the above pics and the info below...

Hi Craig,

I finally found time to scan the pics I've made in Paris on the 15th of January. These pics have been made in front of the Planet Hollywood on the Champs Elysées.

All my best to you and your Family

Alex "LotOfSly"

__________

Alex meets more celebs than anyone! We're just 1/2 through his Sly photos. Yep, more to come! Thanks to Alex for sharing. - Craig

Sly in Paris

Szoner, Alex, sent in this photos that he took when Sly was recently in Paris. Here's what Alex had to say:

Hi Craig,

I finally found time to scan the pics I've made in Paris on the 15th of January. These first 4 pics have been made as Sly left his hotel ("Ritz hotel") after press conferences. He was leaving the place to go to a French tv studio where he was the special guest of a show (the show is called "La méthode Cauet").

Alex "LotOfSly"

__________

More to come! - Craig

Ultimate Fan Contest Winner

I recently received an e-mail from Dan Nobel who had this to say:

Craig –

I just wanted to say thanks for the Rocky fan site contest and selecting my website as the winner. I am a huge Rocky fan and the autographed boxing gloves are awesome. These are my first pieces of Rocky memorabilia so I am very excited. Just need to figure out how to display them. I attached a picture of them. Thanks so much!!

Daniel Noble

__________

Thanks to Dan for the "thanks" and for sharing the photo with us! Dan's collection is off to a great start. It'll be interesting to see how it grows. - Craig

Another Rocky Fan's Collection

SZoner, Steve Cascella asks, "What do you think of my collection?" - Craig Zablo

Moreno's "Angel of the City"

SZoner, Gerardo Moreno has sent in one of his best [and they are all excellent] digital paintings. He calls this one "Angel of the City" aka "Cobra." - Craig

Brett Dexter's Fan Art

SZoner, Brett Dexter sent in his latest "Rocky Balboa" art. Thanks to Brett for sharing! - Craig

Sly in Liverpool!

SZoner, Phil Wallis e-mailed the above photo and these comments:

Hi Craig! I've sent you a picture that I took when I travelled up to Liverpool, to see Sly at the Everton football game. The street was full of his fans, all chanting ROCKY! ROCKY!, It was a great atmosphere. Also, Ive nearly finished a new painting of the great man, I'll send you a picture of it when its complete.
Keep up the good work.
All the best. Phil Wallis. Derby, England.

Thanks to Phil for sharing! - Craig

SZoner's Rocky Statue

SZoner, Han wrote in to say:

Yo Craig!
I've browsed your site for so many years now. Love your site! I can't believe how many collection of photos of Sly you have over the years. I'm putting ROCKY statue photos since I've been a regular visitor on your site, so I thought I need to contribute a little bit.
I put mine on a pedestal to make it look more special (because IT IS!!). The spot next to the door is only temporary since I live on a small apartment.
But I'll find a better place and put a framed Rocky poster behind it. Just like the link that I found which is really awesome.

__________

Han, don't you just love your statue! I know I do! - Craig

SZ Exclusive: Sly @ London Premiere

SZoner, Darren Cage checked in from the London Premiere of "Rocky Balboa" with these pics and comments:

I was in london for the rocky premiere last night and i would like to point out that stallone was a pleasing figure with the well turned out crowd he took the time to sign for people and didn't rush top bloke made a real effort and gave my son a memory he wont forget. some pics for you. i will try and send some of my own shortly
Regards
Darren Cage

Thanks to Darren for sharrin' - Craig

Rocky Super Collector

SZoner, Rob Hoskins checked in with some more pics from his Rocky collection. Here's what he had to say:

Hi Craig,
How about that "ROCKY BALBOA"? Amazing, huh? You might remember me from a while back when you posted pics of my Stallone collection. Lately I have acquired some new items that have hit the market and seem to have added a whole new dimension to my displays.
Everything looks OUTSTANDING. I thought I'd share some of the results with you. Be well and GOD Bless...
ROB HOSKINS
Lex., Ky.

Great stuff! I especially like how you displayed your statue! - Craig

Update on "Rocky Balboa" Collector Cards

Miguel checked in with this update on the "Rocky Balboa" Trading Cards:

Hello Craig! Hope your New Year is off to a great start. Congratulations on the sharp new look to the Stallonezone website--the updated photos of Sly's world tour are awesome!

I wanted to let you and fellow SZoners know that we (MIGBIZ) will be at the FX Convention in Orlando, FL this Jan 26-28th booth #526. Come by and check out the full Rocky Balboa trading card set along with many cool surprises!

We have also produced a Limited Edition promotional Rocky Balboa trading card that will be given out by the FX staff while they last!!

Look forward to seeing all of you there. Keep up the great work! Miguel A. Insignares MIG.BIZ,LLC

__________

Great to hear from Mig! I'll be at FX and will get pics and a full report. For more details check out

his website. - Craig

Sly in Wales

SZoner, Clay Jones checked in with these pics and the following:

Hi Craig

Thought you might like to see a couple of pictures that were published in the 'Wales on Sunday' newspaper. They show Sly with Welsh super middleweight champ Joe Calzaghe at a gala boxing dinner. The article said that Sly will be in Peter Manfredo Junior's corner when Calzaghe defends his titles against him on the 3rd April in the Millennium Stadium, Cardiff.

Really good site, keep up the good work!

Clay Jones

__________

Thanks to Clay for the kind words and sharing the pics! - Craig

SZoners Promote "Rocky Balboa"

SZoner, Ernest "Jazzman" Resendes sent in the picture above and the message below:

Hey guys,

A local paper just did a piece on our whole Vegas/Boston Q&A experience. Writer Rick Snizek was doing a story on a local musician who just happened to be my buddy Bob's uncle. Bob mentioned the unbelievable RB experience and Rick immediately wanted to do a story.

Here's the pic they used and some excerpts. The photo was taken at the end pf our last day on the set as we were leaving. Sly is between us in the far distance looking over fight footage with Frank and the crew.

BRUSH WITH FAME
City natives share screen time with Stallone By Rick Snizek

"We all have obstacles to overcome," Resendes says, noting how much a labor of love the film, which took in more than $51 million at the box office in its first two weeks alone, was for Stallone. He made this picture on a comparatively shoestring budget of $24 million, with Hollywood uncertain of how Rocky Balboa's saga would play to a new generation.

"It's defied a lot of people's expectations," Resendes adds, feeling that Stallone's intended soulful approach to living one's life resonates with audiences young and old. In one scene in the movie, unfortunately one that did land on the cutting room floor, Resendes actually rushes out of his seat at the end of the bout thrusting both hands into the air in victory to congratulate the champ as he makes his way from the ring.

Although the pair came in very close proximity to Stallone during the filming, they didn't get a chance to speak to him about their admiration for his work. But little did they know at the time that such an opportunity would present itself before the film would be released.

The experience was indeed a dream come true for Resendes and Manuels, one which they say has inspired them to push even harder to achieve their goals in life.

__________

Thanks to Jazz for sharing! - Craig

SZ Exclusive: Sly in Spain!

SZoner, Juan Mogica, from Madrid, Spain checked in with these exclusive pics of Sly taken Monday, January 8, 2007 when Sly was in Madrid promoting "Rocky Balboa." In addition to being a huge Stallone/Rocky fan, Juan is a songwriter/producer, and if you want to take check out his website you can at: www.juanmogica.com.





Before we close, Juan included a photo of his A. Thomas Shomberg "Rocky" statue. Here's what Juan had to say about it: "I just receive today my 12 inches Rocky statue, and I ordered it only two days ago!! Incredible!"

I couldn't agree more about the statue! Thanks for sharing your pictures! - Craig

SZone Exclusive: More Philly Photos!

SZoner, Bridget is back with more exclusive photographs of Sly and Burt Young at the Philly Premiere of "Rocky Balboa." - Craig

SZ Exclusive: Rocky vs Dixon

SZoner, Bridget is back with more behind the scenes photos from the Vegas filming!

Thanks to Bridget for sharing! - Craig

Empire's Review of "Rocky Balboa"

SZoner, Brett Dexter, sent in a copy of Empire magazine's review of "Rocky Balboa." Overall they gave it a three star rating and seemed to really like it despite the fact that they really didn't want to... Here are some excerpts:

* "Rocky Balboa"... pulls off the unique cinematic feat of being totally terrible and completely brillant at the same time.

* There have been no "Casino Royale" style re-inventions here but, in some senses, this is equally smart.

* Completely understanding the level on which the movie needs to work, "Rocky Balboa" is bold, broad and magnificently big-hearted.

* Stallone clearly loves his character and knows that we feel the same. As a director he is not afraid to commit to the material... as an actor he has an inate dignity and hangdog charm that can make the corniest dialogue palatable...

* And the final showdown with Mason Dixon [Antonio Tarver], with its full-bloodied, hyper-real, toe-to-toe pugilism is up there with the Apollo Creed/Clubber Lang fight nights of old.

- Craig Zablo

SZ Exclusive: Vegas Photos!

SZoner, Bridget is back with more exclusive photos. This time she has behind-the-scene shots of the "Rocky Balboa" filming in Vegas.

Here's a cool shot of Sly and Antonio Tarver locking up. You can catch a glimpse of Bridget in the left side of the shot!


Sly and Antonio are still going at it. Yep, Bridget is still cheering!


Frank Stallone films some shots of the crowd as the crew gets ready for another shot.


SZoners, led by Bridget are there representing!

SZoners Unite for Viewing

SZoner, Christopher aka "Slyguy" and his son, Ajay, met up with SZoner and "Sly Artist", Bill Pruitt before going to a showing of "Rocky Balboa" on December 26th. Another SZoner, MTotry [not pictured] joined them for the viewing. Needless to say, they all enjoyed the movie. ; )

- Craig

SZone Exclusive: Philly Photos!

SZoner, Bridget checked in with photos from her trip to the Philly premiere of "Rocky Balboa." Sly waved to his fans as he headed into the crowded theater!

Sly and his girls!

Frank was also there!


Burt Young!


Milo was interviewed by Santa!


What a year Milo is having... "Rocky Balboa" and Heroes!

SZoners, Bridget and Adnuk with friends!


SZoners unite to see the Philly Premiere!

SZ Exclusive: Philly Pics

SZoner, Bridget2495 checked in with some exclusive photos from the Philly premiere! Here is the first set of pics of Sly and his girls! Thanks to Bridget for sharing! - Craig

Eastside Boxing Coverage

Eastside Boxing.com has coverage of Sly's meeting with WBO World Super-Middleweight Champion Joe Calzaghe. Click HERE for full coverage.

Sly & Joe Calzaghe 4

U.S. director and actor Sylvester Stallone , right, poses with world champion boxer Joe Calzaghe, left, as he arrives for the British premiere of his latest film 'Rocky Balboa' at a cinema in central London's Leicester Square, Tuesday Jan. 16, 2007. (AP Photo/Lefteris Pitarakis)
AP via Yahoo! News - Jan 16 1:08 PM

Sly & Joe Calzaghe 3

U.S. director and actor Sylvester Stallone , right, poses with world champion boxer Joe Calzaghe, left, as he arrives for the British premiere of his latest film 'Rocky Balboa' at a cinema in central London's Leicester Square, Tuesday Jan. 16, 2007. (AP Photo/Lefteris Pitarakis)
AP via Yahoo! News - Jan 16 1:07 PM

Sly in London

U.S. director and actor Sylvester Stallone poses for photographers as he arrives for the British premiere of his latest film 'Rocky Balboa' at a cinema in central London's Leicester Square, Tuesday Jan. 16, 2007. (AP Photo/Lefteris Pitarakis)
AP via Yahoo! News - Jan 16 12:58 PM

Sly Triumphant

U.S. director and actor Sylvester Stallone poses for photographers as he arrives for the British premiere of his latest film 'Rocky Balboa' at a cinema in central London's Leicester Square, Tuesday Jan. 16, 2007. (AP Photo/Lefteris Pitarakis)
AP via Yahoo! News - Jan 16 12:57 PM

Sly Autographs

U.S. actor Sylvester Stallone signs autographs as he arrives for the British premiere of his latest film 'Rocky Balboa' at The Vue Cinema in London's Leicester Square January 16, 2007. REUTERS/Dylan Martinez (BRITAIN)
Reuters via Yahoo! News - Jan 16 7:10 AM

Sly & Joe Calzaghe 2

U.S. actor Sylvester Stallone (R) poses with world champion boxer Joe Calzaghe as he arrives for the British premiere of his latest film 'Rocky Balboa' at The Vue Cinema in London's Leicester Square January 16, 2007. REUTERS/Dylan Martinez (BRITAIN)
Reuters via Yahoo! News - Jan 16 7:10 AM

Sly & Lisa Snowden 2

U.S. actor Sylvester Stallone poses with television presenter Lisa Snowden as he arrives for the British premiere of his latest film 'Rocky Balboa' at The Vue Cinema in London's Leicester Square January 16, 2007. REUTERS/Dylan Martinez (BRITAIN)
Reuters via Yahoo! News - Jan 16 6:59 AM

Sly Kiss

U.S. actor Sylvester Stallone blows a kiss as he arrives for the British premiere of his latest film 'Rocky Balboa' at The Vue Cinema in London's Leicester Square January 16, 2007. REUTERS/Dylan Martinez (BRITAIN)
Reuters via Yahoo! News - Jan 16 6:36 AM

Sly & Lisa Snowden

U.S. actor Sylvester Stallone poses with television presenter Lisa Snowden as he arrives for the British premiere of his latest film 'Rocky Balboa' at The Vue Cinema in London's Leicester Square January 16, 2007. REUTERS/Dylan Martinez (BRITAIN)
Reuters via Yahoo! News - Jan 16 6:53 AM

Sly @ UK Premiere

U.S. actor Sylvester Stallone signs autographs as he arrives for the British premiere of his latest film 'Rocky Balboa' at The Vue Cinema in London's Leicester Square January 16, 2007. REUTERS/Dylan Martinez (BRITAIN)
Reuters via Yahoo! News - Jan 16 6:36 AM

Sly Arrives

U.S. actor Sylvester Stallone poses as he arrives for the British premiere of his latest film 'Rocky Balboa' at The Vue Cinema in London's Leicester Square January 16, 2007. REUTERS/Dylan Martinez (BRITAIN)
Reuters via Yahoo! News - Jan 16 6:24 AM

Sly Signs

U.S. director and actor Sylvester Stallone, right, signs autographs for his fans as he arrives for the British premiere of his latest film 'Rocky Balboa' at a cinema in central London's Leicester Square, Tuesday Jan. 16, 2007. (AP Photo/Lefteris Pitarakis) (AP/LEFTERIS PITARAKIS)
AP via Yahoo! UK & Ireland News - Jan 16 2:13 PM

Sly & Joe Calzaghe

U.S. director and actor Sylvester Stallone, right, poses with world champion boxer Joe Calzaghe, left, as he arrives for the British premiere of his latest film 'Rocky Balboa' at a cinema in central London's Leicester Square, Tuesday Jan. 16, 2007. (AP Photo/Lefteris Pitarakis) (AP/LEFTERIS PITARAKIS)
AP via Yahoo! UK & Ireland News - Jan 16 1:08 PM

Sly: Director & Actor

U.S. director and actor Sylvester Stallone poses for photographers as he arrives for the British premiere of his latest film 'Rocky Balboa' at a cinema in central London's Leicester Square, Tuesday Jan. 16, 2007. (AP Photo/Lefteris Pitarakis) (AP/LEFTERIS PITARAKIS)
AP via Yahoo! UK & Ireland News - Jan 16 12:58 PM

Sly Poses

U.S. director and actor Sylvester Stallone poses with television presenter Lisa Snowden, right, as he arrives for the British premiere of his latest film 'Rocky Balboa' at a cinema in central London's Leicester Square, Tuesday Jan. 16, 2007. (AP Photo/Lefteris Pitarakis) (AP/LEFTERIS PITARAKIS)
AP via Yahoo! UK & Ireland News - Jan 16 12:57 PM

Sly Shows

US movie star Sylvester Stallone shows boxing shorts that will be on display at the Planet Hollywood restaurant in Paris, Monday Jan. 15, 2007. Sylvester Stallone is in Paris to promote the sixth episode of Rocky's saga:' Rocky Balboa', that will be launched on the French screens on Jan. 24. (AP Photo/Remy de la Mauviniere)
AP via Yahoo! News - Jan 15 11:13 AM

Sly Points

US movie star Sylvester Stallone makes a point as he addresses reporters during a press conference held in Paris Monday Jan. 15, 2007, on his last movie Rocky Balboa. Sylvester Stallone wrote the script, directed and played in the sixth episode of Rocky's saga:' Rocky Balboa' that will be launched on the French screens on Jan. 24. (AP Photo/Remy de la Mauviniere)
AP via Yahoo! News - 10 minutes ago

Sly Gestures

US movie star Sylvester Stallone gestures as he addresses reporters during a press conference held in Paris Monday Jan. 15, 2007, on his last movie Rocky Balboa. Sylvester Stallone wrote the script, directed and played in the sixth episode of Rocky's saga:' Rocky Balboa' that will be launched on the French screens on Jan. 24. (AP Photo/Remy de la Mauviniere)
AP via Yahoo! News - 9 minutes ago

Sly Winks

US movie star Sylvester Stallone gestures as he arrives at a press conference held in Paris Monday Jan. 15, 2007, on his last movie Rocky Balboa. Sylvester Stallone wrote the script, directed and played in the sixth episode of Rocky's saga:' Rocky Balboa' that will be launched on the French screens on Jan. 24. (AP Photo/Remy de la Mauviniere)
AP via Yahoo! News - 9 minutes ago

Sly Gestures

US movie star Sylvester Stallone gestures as he answers reporters during a press conference held in Paris Monday Jan. 15, 2007, on his last movie Rocky Balboa. Sylvester Stallone wrote the script, directed and played in the sixth episode of Rocky's saga:' Rocky Balboa' that will be launched on the French screens on Jan. 24. (AP Photo/Remy de la Mauviniere)
AP via Yahoo! News - 11 minutes ago

Sly Salutes

US movie star Sylvester Stallone waves to reporters at the end of a press conference held in Paris Monday Jan. 15, 2007, on his last movie Rocky Balboa. Sylvester Stallone wrote the script, directed and played in the sixth episode of Rocky's saga:' Rocky Balboa' that will be launched on the French screens on Jan. 24. (AP Photo/Remy de la Mauviniere)
AP via Yahoo! News - 10 minutes ago

Sly Waves

US movie star Sylvester Stallone waves to reporters at the start of a press conference held in Paris Monday Jan. 15, 2007, on his last movie Rocky Balboa. Sylvester Stallone wrote the script, directed and played in the sixth episode of Rocky's saga:' Rocky Balboa' that will be launched on the French screens on Jan. 24. (AP Photo/Remy de la Mauviniere)
AP via Yahoo! News - 9 minutes ago

Sly On

Hollywood star Sylvester Stallone on the pitch before Everton's match against Reading during their English Premier League soccer match at Goodison Park Stadium, Liverpool, England, Sunday Jan. 14, 2007. Stallone, appeared as a guest of the club before travelling to London for Tuesday's British premiere of Rocky Balboa, the sixth film in the famous boxing series. (AP Photo/Dave Thompson)
AP via Yahoo! News - Jan 14 9:04 AM

Sly Holds

American actor Sylvester Stallone, center, holds his head in his hands as Everton miss a chance against Reading during their English Premier League soccer match at Goodison Park Stadium, Liverpool, England, Sunday Jan. 14, 2007. Stallone, appeared as a guest of the club before travelling to London for Tuesday's British premiere of Rocky Balboa, the sixth film in the famous boxing series. (AP Photo/Dave Thompson)
AP via Yahoo! News - Jan 14 8:50 AM

Sly Waves

Hollywood star Sylvester Stallone waves as he leaves the pitch before Everton's match against Reading during their English Premier League soccer match at Goodison Park Stadium, Liverpool, England, Sunday Jan. 14, 2007. Stallone, appeared as a guest of the club before travelling to London for Tuesday's British premiere of Rocky Balboa, the sixth film in the famous boxing series. (AP Photo/Dave Thompson)
AP via Yahoo! News - Jan 14 8:39 AM

Sly Walks

US actor Sylvester Stallone walks across the pitch holding an Everton scarf before the Everton vs. Reading Premiership football match at Goodison Park, Liverpool. Stallone believes David Beckham will be a major success in the United States when he joins the LA Galaxy next year. Photo:Paul Ellis/AFP
AFP via Yahoo! Canada News - 16 minutes ago

Sly Greets

Hollywood star Sylvester Stallone greets supporters before the start of the English Premiership soccer match between Everton and Reading at Goodison Park, Liverpool, England Sunday Jan. (AP/PETER BYRNE)
AP via Yahoo! UK & Ireland News - 41 minutes ago

Sly Greeted

Sylvester Stallone is greeted by spectators as he arrives to watch the English Premiership soccer match between Everton and Reading at Goodison Park, Liverpool, England Sunday Jan. (AP/PETER BYRNE)
AP via Yahoo! UK & Ireland News - 1 hour, 26 minutes ago

Sly in England!

Sylvester Stallone arrives to watch the English Premiership soccer match between Everton and Reading at Goodison Park, Liverpool, England Sunday Jan. (AP/PETER BYRNE)
AP via Yahoo! UK & Ireland News - 1 hour, 30 minutes ago

"Rocky Balboa" Round 1 in Germany

U.S. actor Sylvester Stallone poses for photographers during a news conference in Cologne January 11, 2007. Stallone is in Germany to promote his latest film 'Rocky Balboa', which starts on February 8, 2007 in Germany. REUTERS/Ina Fassbender (GERMANY)
Reuters via Yahoo! News - Jan 10 9:59 PM

Looking Hazardous

U.S. actor Sylvester Stallone poses for photographers during a news conference in Cologne January 11, 2007. Stallone is in Germany to promote his latest film 'Rocky Balboa', which starts on February 8, 2007 in Germany. REUTERS/Ina Fassbender (GERMANY)
Reuters via Yahoo! News - Jan 10 10:05 PM

Feeling Strong

U.S. actor Sylvester Stallone poses for photographers during a news conference in Cologne January 11, 2007. Stallone is in Germany to promote his latest film 'Rocky Balboa', which starts on February 8, 2007 in Germany. REUTERS/Ina Fassbender (GERMANY)
Reuters via Yahoo! News - Jan 10 10:08 PM

Sly Flexes for Germany

U.S. actor Sylvester Stallone poses for photographers during a news conference in Cologne January 11, 2007. Stallone is in Germany to promote his latest film 'Rocky Balboa', which starts on February 8, 2007 in Germany. REUTERS/Ina Fassbender (GERMANY)
Reuters via Yahoo! News - Jan 10 10:06 PM

Dukes Up in Germany

U.S. actor Sylvester Stallone poses for photographers during a news conference in Cologne January 11, 2007. Stallone is in Germany to promote his latest film 'Rocky Balboa', which starts on February 8, 2007 in Germany. REUTERS/Ina Fassbender (GERMANY)
Reuters via Yahoo! News - Jan 10 10:32 PM

"Rocky Balboa" Hits Germany

US actor Sylvester Stallone poses for photographers during a photocall for his new film 'Rocky Balboa' in Cologne, Germany, Thursday, Jan. 11, 2007. (AP Photo/Hermann J. Knippertz)
AP via Yahoo! News - Jan 11 3:06 AM

Sly @ German Photocall

US actor Sylvester Stallone poses for photographers during a photocall for his new film 'Rocky Balboa' in Cologne, Germany, Thursday, Jan. 11, 2007. (AP Photo/Hermann J. Knippertz)
AP via Yahoo! News - Jan 11 3:07 AM

Sly in Germany!

US actor Sylvester Stallone poses for photographers during a photocall for his new film 'Rocky Balboa' in Cologne, Germany, Thursday, Jan. 11, 2007. (AP Photo/Hermann J. Knippertz)
AP via Yahoo! News - Jan 11 3:07 AM

A Picture is Worth

SZoner, Tim S. wanted to share a picture of just how much Rocky Balboa means to him. Here's a shot of his Rocky tat! - Craig

Sly Arrives in Rome

U.S. actor Sylvester Stallone arrives at the Italian premiere of his movie "Rocky Balboa", in Rome, Tuesday, Jan. 9, 2007. (AP Photo/Andrew Medichini)

Sly Approached

U.S. actor Sylvester Stallone (R) is approached by a man dressed as a Roman centurion, as he walks on the Spanish Steps in central Rome, January 9, 2007. Stallone is in Italy to promote his latest movie 'Rocky Balboa'. REUTERS/Dario Pignatelli (ITALY)

Sly Flanked by Guards

U.S. actor Sylvester Stallone (C) is flanked by bodyguards while walking in a shopping district of central Rome January 9, 2007. Stallone is in Italy to promote his latest movie 'Rocky Balboa'. REUTERS/Dario Pignatelli (ITALY)

Sly Poses Too

U.S. actor Sylvester Stallone (R) poses with a man dressed as a Roman centurion, as he walks on the Spanish Steps in central Rome, January 9, 2007. Stallone is in Italy to promote his latest movie 'Rocky Balboa'. REUTERS/Dario Pignatelli (ITALY)

Sly Poses

U.S. actor Sylvester Stallone (R) poses with a man dressed as a Roman centurion, as he walks on the Spanish Steps in central Rome, January 9, 2007. Stallone is in Italy to promote his latest movie 'Rocky Balboa'. REUTERS/Dario Pignatelli (ITALY)

Sly Smiles

Hollywood star Sylvester Stallone smiles at the Italian premiere of his movie "Rocky Balboa", in Rome, Tuesday, Jan. (AP/ANDREW MEDICHINI)

Sly and Kevin Levrone

SZoner, Michael Russo checked in with the photo above and the following:

Craig, here Sly is photographed with Arnold Classic professional bodybuilding champion Kevin Levrone. peace - Michael Russo

Mike thinks the photo was taken sometime around 2000 or 2001. Thanks to Mike for sharing! - Craig

Craig's Rocky Statue

Over the years I've picked up quite a few cool Stallone-related items for my personal collection. When I graduated college my wife bought me the LeRoy Neiman "Rocky" print. I have a personalized autographed picture from Sly. I have the rare Franklin Mint Rocky statue. I have original art from some of my favorite artists doing their take on Sly. Over the Christmas holiday I received a new addition to my collection that I'm still in awe of. It's my A. Thomas Schomberg "Rocky" replica statue!

As most SZoners know, Mr. Schomberg was the artist who created the original Rocky statue that was used in "Rocky III." Sly personally chose Mr. Schomberg after seeing [and purchasing] some of his work. Over the years Mr. Schomberg had been approached about releasing a Rocky collector statue, but the deals were never quite right. Mr. Schomberg wanted to insure two things: 1] That the statues were quality pieces and 2] There would be a version affordable by all fans! This past year everything came together... the 30th anniversary of "Rocky"... Sly writing, directing and starring in the final chapter of "Rocky Balboa" and MGM teaming with Sly and Mr. Schomberg to release three versions of the Rocky statues... all of them quality pieces and one for every price range!

I couldn't wait for mine to arrive. I was worried that it might get damaged in transit [but more importantly, I justed want to HAVE it!]. As you can see from the packaging, I shouldn't have worried. It was securely packed, boxed, bagged and surrounded by styrofoam. It arrived in pristine condition.

And what a thing of beauty! The photos here [and on Mr. Schomberg's website] really can't do the statue justice. Perhaps it's because the statue is so well done and the photo can't truly capture the little details that the 3-dimensional sculpture has. Or maybe it's the fact that the statue symbolizes everything that we admire in Rocky Balboa. Either way, I know that it brings a smile to my face every time I look at it and it will be the cornerstone of my collection for a long time to come.

Several SZoners said that they were planing to get a statue. If you did, please feel free to send me a photo and I'll post it on the site. It'll be interesting to see just how many places and how far Rocky has traveled around the world! And if you haven't got yours yet, you still can. Just click HERE and tell 'em the SZ sent ya! - Craig

Gerardo Moreno" "No Easy Way Out"

SZoner, Gerardo Moreno checked in with his latest digital poster. It's a cool design for "Rocky Balboa." Gerardo keeps smacking homeruns! - Craig

Sly's Autograph for Charity

Isabel Jordan contacted me and asked if I would pass along the following:

We [Silent Partners, Inc.] are auctioning a pair of red Everlast boxing gloves autographed by Sylvester Stallone for sale on eBay. 100% of the proceeds are going to support Variety - The Children's Charity of Southern California. It is a wonderful Children’s Charity benefiting Los Angeles children in need. Could you please pass along the info to your StalloneZone website visitors? You would be helping a great cause and we would really appreciate it!

Click HERE to check out the auction. - Craig Zablo

People: Sly's Life in Pictures

The January 15, 2007 issue of People features Sly in the "My Life in Pictures" section. The article consists of 3 pages [the first pictured above] and nine photos. Here are a couple of quotes from Sly:

• Why didn't his son, Sage, play his son in Rocky Balboa? "It would have been a little too personal... I wanted to keep the psychodrama at home."
  
• "Things really started to slow down for me about ten years ago, and I had a lot of time for introspection. You look back and it's kind of bittersweet. That is why I wanted to write this film ["Rocky Balboa"]. If I had been cranking out films, very successful ones, I wouldn't have done this one."

The People issue is on newstands now. - Craig Zablo

Sly in Mexico

Actor Sylvester Stallone poses for photographers during a news conference in Mexico City January 4, 2007. Stallone is in Mexico promoting his film 'Rocky Balboa'. REUTERS/Henry Romero (MEXICO) Reuters via Yahoo! News - Jan 04 11:56 AM

Actor Sylvester Stallone poses for photographers during a news conference in Mexico City January 4, 2007. Stallone is in Mexico to promote his film 'Rocky Balboa'. REUTERS/Henry Romero(MEXICO) Reuters via Yahoo! News - Jan 04 11:49 AM

Actor Sylvester Stallone poses for photographers during a news conference in Mexico City January 4, 2007. Stallone is in Mexico promoting his film 'Rocky Balboa'. REUTERS/Henry Romero (MEXICO) Reuters via Yahoo! News - Jan 04 11:59 AM

Actor Sylvester Stallone poses for photographers during a press conference to promote his latest Rocky VI movie in Mexico City, Thursday, Jan. 4, 2007. (AP Photo/Eduardo Verdugo) AP via Yahoo! News - Jan 04 4:06 PM

Actor Sylvester Stallone poses for photographers during a press conference to promote his latest Rocky VI movie in Mexico City, Thursday, Jan. 4, 2007. (AP Photo/Eduardo Verdugo)
AP via Yahoo! News - Jan 04 4:11 PM

Sly Says Boxing Has Image Problem

Boxing has image problem, says "Rocky" Stallone By Catherine Bremer

Boxing today is suffering from an image problem, "Rocky" star Sylvester Stallone said on Thursday, as he visited Mexico to promote the fictional fighter's return to the ring in a new film sequel.

"It's a horrible image. It's worse now," he said when asked about the damage done to the sport by bad-boy fighters like convicted rapist and ear-biter Mike Tyson and a scarcity of world-class fighters and out-sized personalities like boxing legend Muhammad Ali.

"I don't know if it's just bad management or whatever, or the cream is not rising to the top, but you'd have to think that boxing is a reflection of the promoters," Stallone said.

Aged 60, but retaining his muscular body, Stallone defied critics by bringing his much-loved character Rocky Balboa out of retirement for a sixth Rocky movie, titled simply "Rocky Balboa," 30 years after the first one became an international hit.

"I wanted to create an awareness for boxing again because it had gone downhill a little bit," he told a media briefing.

Heavyweight boxing has been in decline for years. One reason fewer young athletes may be taking it up is that critics complain the sport can cause devastating brain damage.

Stallone's original 1976 movie tells of a lovable small-time boxer in Philadelphia dubbed "The Italian Stallion" who, in one of Hollywood's favorite underdog stories, gets a once-in-a-lifetime chance to prove himself by fighting a heavyweight champ.

It became a surprise smash hit, winning an Oscar for best film and making Stallone, who wrote the story and played the lead, a star. Four other Rocky movies followed before Stallone set aside the character for a spell.

ONE LAST FIGHT

In the sixth film -- which uses a retired fighter as Rocky's young opponent and real fans for the crowd -- an aging Rocky decides he has enough punch left for one last fight. He ends up in the ring with the reigning heavyweight champ.

Next to some of today's gentler movie heroes, the scenes of sweat-drenched brutes thumping each other as the crowd chants "Rocky!" are a flashback to the late 1970s and 1980s.

But it's not about thoughtless aggression, Stallone said.

"Rocky Balboa" is a mature film aimed at people his age who can empathize with Rocky's need to purge himself of old demons.

"Yes it's brutal, but you know that they're going in there on an even pace. It's not a strong man attacking a stranger," he said of boxing in general, which he admits his wife hates.

And for fans of the first film who have taken a few of life's lessons on the chin over the years, Rocky represents an everyday guy and his opponent represents life, he said.

"Life is stronger than us. It beats on you and you fight back and you get knocked out and at the end you're bloody but still standing. That's really the relevance of this movie."

Stallone is also working on a comeback sequel of his other 1980s hulk-like character "Rambo."




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Entertainment Weekly Interviews Sly

Entertainment Weekly's Missy Schwartz has a nice interview with Sly posted on the web. Here are a couple of highlights:

• "Well, I am a has-been. I mean, there's no question... It's just that ''has-been'' has a terrible connotation. Has-been is a good thing. You have been something. Alright, so at least you were there, instead of a never-been, you know?
  
• "I believe your private life is the key to your public life... I finally got that part right."
  
• "Does the world really want to see John Wayne, Lee Marvin, Charles Bronson and Sylvester Stallone in the laugh, yuck-fest of the season?"
  
• "It's nice to be able to hold your head up and be proud of something you've done. It's been a long, long time. But what to do after?"

So what are you waiting for? Head over HERE and check out the interview! - Craig

Great Interview with "Rocky Balboa" Editor

PostMagazine.com is currently running a great interview with Sean Anderson editor of "Rocky Balboa." Here's just a taste of what Mr. Anderson had to say:

• "Once I knew what Sly's intention was for this final chapter, I had absolutely no reservations. To edit the film that he wanted to make was a chance for me to touch history."
  
• "The film shot for about eight weeks. We had a two-week editor's cut in the schedule, which actually never happened. Sly was in the cutting room the day after he finished shooting."
  
• "It was not lost on me that I was now sitting in a room with an American icon that I grew up watching on the big screen."

Sean Anderson talks about the editing process [it's especially interesting how they dealt with an emotional scene which defined Paulie's character arc and changed the tone of the movie], his admiration for Sylvester Stallone and why he felt compelled to join the "Rocky Balboa" team. Click HERE for the full interview. - Craig Zablo

Chuck Wepner: Real-Life Rocky

Robert Mladinich has an interesting profile/interview with Chuck Wepner over at TheSweetScience.com. As most SZoners know, it was Wepner's fight against Muhammad Ali that provided Sly with the spark to create Rocky. Last year, as Sly was prepping "Rocky Balboa," Wepner filed suit against Sly and MGM. The case was settled out of court.

So what did Wepner think of "Rocky Balboa"? “I wasn’t disappointed at all,” Wepner is quoted as saying, “The first movie was a masterpiece. This one was pretty close.”

For the full story click HERE. - Craig Zablo

StalloneZone 2007

As we enter our eleventh year, I felt that it was time to "Take You Back." When I first started the StalloneZone in 1996 it was a little site on America On-Line. Over the years the StalloneZone

It's been a heck of a ride, with the last year being the wildest yet. Not only did Sly return to his roots and win his fight to bring "Rocky Balboa" back with the send-off we've always dreamed, but SZoners got a boost when I was contacted by Sly's reps and MGM and asked to run the official Rocky Balboa Blog! We were given first looks, a contest and created connections with a ton of cool people. Sage and Frank Stallone provided us with some of their personal photos. SZoners from around the world came together at "Rocky Balboa" filmings in Las Vegas and Philly. More SZoners than ever came to the site. People, from around the world who would have otherwise never met, became friends. The StalloneZone community had never been stronger!

John Beatty agreed to assist me once again with a new look for the SZ. After his bang-up job on the official Rocky Balboa Blog, how could I turn him down.

So here we are... heading into year eleven with a new look and an old attitude. Sylvester Stallone is the man. Stallone fans are the greatest in the world. The best is yet to come.

- Craig Zablo has continued to grow and attract the best fans in the world.

PS - The SZ Forum will maintain links to the "old" SZ sections until the new pages are completed!

Three US Weekly Tidbits

The January 8, 2007 issue of US magazine has three tidbits about Sly.

The first features Sly and Brandon Davis in the "Look-Alike of the Week" feature. Both are shown in small photos with the caption: "Should Brandon Davis have played Rocky Balboa's son instead of Milo Ventimiglia?"

The second time Sly appears is in the "Loose Talk: What Stars Said This Week" section. "I have two beautiful daughters... I'd try to get them to watch one of the Rocky movies and they'd go, 'I want to watch SpongeBob Squarepaints.'" - Sylvester Stallone [Craig -- Sly has 3 daughters!]

The third tidbit features a brief profile of Milo Ventimiglia who says that at first producers didn't want him for the role of Rocky's son despite the fact that he looks like Sly! - Craig Zablo

US Stallone Trifecta!

The January 1, 2007 issue of US magazine features three articles of interest to all Sly fans.
The first piece [accompained by the photo above] briefly touches on the alleged feud between Sly and Richard Gere.

The second piece is a one page spread covering the "Rocky Balboa" premiere. Of course the shot of Sly and Bruce Willis just cries out for a project that teams the two superstars.

The third item of interest is US magazine's review of "Rocky Balboa."They give it three out of four stars and conclude with: "This Rocky's a knockout!"

-Craig Zablo

"Rocky Balboa": Best of the Year

BlogCritics Magazine puts "Rocky Balboa" on the best of the year list: Here's what they have to say: "Rocky Balboa - Real life drama and Stallone’s persona come out a winner in this final installment, which redeems the series from the previous disappointment Rocky V."

"Rocky Balboa" No Underdog

Writer, director and cast member Sylvester Stallone attends the world premiere of 'Rocky Balboa' at the Chinese theater in Hollywood, California December 13, 2006. 'Rocky Balboa' proved no underdog during its first day at the North American box office, according to sales data issued Thursday. (Mario Anzuoni/Reuters)
Reuters via Yahoo! News - Dec 25 1:44 PM

Sly at "Rocky Balboa" Party

Sylvester Stallone at a party following the Las Vegas premiere of the movie "Rocky Balboa" 19 December. Rocky Balboa, John McClane and now Indiana Jones: Hollywood is going back to the future by resurrecting several much-loved characters despite the advancing years of the actors who made them legends. (AFP/Getty Images/File/Ethan Miller)
AFP/Getty Images/File via Yahoo! News - Jan 03 12:15 AM

Hollywood Goes Back to the Future

Bruce Willis and Sylvester Stallone at the premiere of "Rocky Balboa" 13 December, in Hollywood. Rocky Balboa, John McClane and now Indiana Jones. Hollywood is going back to the future by resurrecting several much-loved characters despite the advancing years of the actors who made them legends. (AFP/Getty Images/File/Frazer Harrison)

AFP/Getty Images/File via Yahoo! News - Jan 03 12:42 AM