Rocky Statue Special!

Hey SZoners!

The holidays are quickly approaching and I wanted to remind everyone that Rocky sculptures are still available through A. Thomas Schomberg studios. These statues were created by Mr. Schomberg [who created the original Rocky sculpture seen in the Rocky movies] in collaboration with Sylvester Stallone and MGM studios. Here's my interview with Mr. Schomberg. [part two of the interview is here] for the SZ.

Mr. Schomberg and his lovely wife, Cynthia, are offering the following discounts for statues purchased between November 26th, 2008 to January 7th, 2009:

20" ROCKY - Bronze Plated - $468 reduced to $395 plus free shipping in the US!
12" ROCKY - Resin and Hand Painted - $98 reduced to $89 plus free shipping in the US!

Limited Supply Available - International orders please inquire as to shipping costs.

Remember, if you've purchases a statue, I'd love to post a picture of you with it! - Craig

Fan Meets Sly

Virgil Richardson is a lifelong Sly fan, and a new SZoner from England. He sent in a couple of photos taken when he met Sly at the London premiere of "Rocky Balboa." Thanks to Virgil for sharing the photos. - Craig

Arnold vs Sly

Earlier this week I received the following e-mail:

Hey, stumbled upon your website via Google earlier and figured that I would send you over an email. Awesome website! My friends and I have recently started up an Arnold Versus Sly website and thought you might want to check it out.

http://www.arnoldversussly.com

Evan
+++++
I've checked out the site and it looks like fun... although they have Arnold ahead 3-2 at this point in the movie battles. - Craig

New Stallone Fan Site

Edmundo is a long time Brazilian Sylvester Stallone fan who discovered the StalloneZone four years ago. Edmundo has started up his own site which you can see here. Check it out and let him know that I send ya! - Craig

PS - I almost forgot to mention the sweet Bill Pruitt painting used in his logo.

Sly as The Dark Knight

Frank Miller, the genius behind such comic book classics as "Batman: Year One," "The Dark Knight Returns," "Sin City," and many other classic tales has been riding high on the success of movie adaptations of his work. Miller recently told a reporter that if "The Dark Knight Returns" was to make it to the big screen, he'd love to see Sylvester Stallone in the title role. Miller was quoted as saying, "I loved 'Rocky Balboa.' This wounded warrior, that's what Batman is in 'Dark Knight Returns'... Just that mouth of his, the scowl and the way it would look in a mask."

Of course this is just speculation on Miller's part. I can't imagine that Miller's "The Dark Knight Returns" would be heading for the big screen at this point due to the fact that Christopher Nolan's version did so well. What would be cool though is for an animated "The Dark Knight Returns" be made using Miller's designs and story. Even if it wasn't done for theatrical release, as long as it wasn't geared down for little kids, it could work. And you know you'd love to hear Stallone's voice coming from The Dark Knight. This would be a great project for HBO or Showtime, or even FX.

PS - And, you just know I'd love to see Miller and Stallone working on any project!

Sly Fan Tat

Here's an e-mail I recently received with the photo above:
+++++

Hiya mate

Thought i’d share my new Stallone tattoo with the zoners! It hurt a bit, but..No Pain!

All best,

Jim

+++++

Right under the collar bone is a tender area! Nice lettering. - Craig

Balboa Band

Remember the cover band, Balboa that we covered here? They were the group that loved Rocky so much that they decided to name their band, Balboa and play songs from Stallone movies [mostly the Rocky series]. Well, they are still going strong and were profiled by ChartAttack on Thursday. You can read the full piece here. - Craig

Cobra Statue

SZoner, PJK sent in photos of the custom made Cobra statue that he created. It never ceases to surprise me, the amount of talented Stallone fans that we have at the StalloneZone!

PJK even created a custom made Cobra base for the statue.

His attention to detail is evident in this close up. PJK is a regular on the StalloneZone message boards. Be sure to let him know how cool this piece is... who knows, maybe we'll see more in the future! - Craig

SZoners Chance Meeting!

SZoner, Robert C. sent in the following: Hey Craig, I'm a long time Stallone Zone fan from Orlando, Fl. Last year I sent in the picture of Frank Stallone and I holding the signed Jakks Frank Stallone figure. I've been out in Hollywood, California for a couple days and who do I bump into while I'm out here. . .none other than the legendary Bill Pruitt! Bill was great! I bought a couple of portraits that have been featured in magazines, purchased by Sly himself and featured on Stallone Zone. Bill's art is amazing, he truly has a gift.
How cool is this chance meeting between East Coast and West Coast SZoner's!?!

+++++

Very cool, I'd say. Thanks for letting us know. - Craig

Super Fan

SZoner, Steve sent in some photos of his collection of Sly Stallone goods.

Thanks to Steve for sharing! - Craig

Rambo: The Complete Collector's Set Winners

The following SZoners were the winners in our RAMBO: The Complete Collector's Set contest sponsored by LIONSGATE:

Christopher Heathcoat of Simi Valley, California

Jim Gay of Johnstown, PA

Hisham Bafakih of Salt Lake City, UT

Congratulations to all winners and thanks to everyone who entered the contest!

Hervé Attia's First Blood

Dear Mr Zablo,

My name is Herve Attia. I've always been a big fan of First Blood movie since it came out in 1982. So, last month, I went to Hope, Canada, visiting the First Blood filming locations which includes Othello/Coquihalla Provincial park, Lake Pitt river (Coquitlam)...

I made a movie which is composed of two parts posted on YouTube.
Part1: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lc7pMuaku1o
Part2: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lc7pMuaku1o

If you like the movie...and think it deserves an entry/post in your web site, don't ask me the permission :) it would be an honor! I've always been a big fan of stallonezone.com.

PS: I had the great privilege having Mr Andrew Laszlo (director of photography) watching the movie. He really enjoyed it. This was definitely my best reward. :) Sincerely, -Hervé Attia

-----
Herve has created a beautiful, creative video love letter to "First Blood." Thanks to Herve for sharing his talents with us. I hope that we get to see more! - Craig

Rocky II Tribute

Jeremy Richey runs a bunch of 70's-related sites [one of my favorite decades!] and this week he offers a "Rocky II" tribute with cool photos, wallpapers, and more. It's definitely worth a look HERE! - Craig

SZoners @ First Blood Showing

Hey Craig! Had a great time last night with some friends at the First Blood viewing. We took this pic of us, maybe you could post on Sunday's update. We thought it might be fun to pay some respect to John J. I don't think any of us were going for total authenticity, however we did have a lot of fun. People were yelling out lines like it was The Rocky Horror Picture show. By now most of know the film quality was not as sharp as we would have liked. However it was truly great to see First Blood on the screen again. Now lets see if we can't get Rocky back for one night!

All the best to you and my fellow SZoners

Adnuk
-----
Thanks for representing! It looks like you guys had a blast! - Craig

SZ Exclusive: Backstage Photos from Japan!

Hi, Craig! Thanx for your sending me back! Finally, I met SLY for real at Japanese RAMBO premiere yesterday!! Wow!! Thease are Sly's jpegs I shot. Because people aronund me were so crazy, I could not shoot photos well enough! This is a Japanese premiere mpeg. I hope you will enjoy these. Thank you!

-----
Congratulations on meeting Sly! And thanks for sending in the photos and link! - Craig

SZ Exclusive: Sly & Fan

SZoner, Jonathon Becker is back with a photo taken with Sly taken at the LakeSide Golf Course, Burbank, CA. Thanks again to Jonathon for sharing his photos! - Craig

Exclusive Sly Philly Photos

SZoner, Joe from Philly, sent in some of his personal photos from the Rocky statue ceremony in Philly. You can see even more of his photos here. I've also included a picture of Joe's office wall - the man is a Super Fan! - Craig

Rocky Fan Art

Hey Craig!

I'm back with a new Rocky Painting from my favourite movie Rocky IV. I have painted it with pencil and pastel colors.

Check out my homepages:

www.manuelscholz.piczo.com
www.myspace.com/manuelscholz
-----
Thanks to Manuel for sharing his talents! - Craig

SZ Exclusive Interview: George Pipasik, Part III

SZ: Which is your favorite Stallone physique on film?

GEORGE PIPASIK: Like I said, every year he gets better and better. I like his body in RAMBO III. It was good, healthy and at that time… perfect. He was in Bangkok.

SZ: When he's in Bangkok what does he eat? I know that wherever you go, the food is different, and in bodybuilding if you eat the wrong food..

GEORGE PIPASIK: At that time...he had two cooks. His own cooks.

SZ: In many interviews he stated that he: "only ate one green vegetable and chicken and that was it." Was that once a day? Twice a day?

GEORGE PIPASIK: No, three times. In between takes, he would pump. He doesn't in RAMBO 4. In RAMBO 3 he pumps so [much that] every ten or fifteen minutes he had oatmeal cookies and honey with a cup of coffee.

SZ: To keep his energy up?

GEORGE PIPASIK: Because every shot he looks pumped.

SZ: In John Rambo, he didn't do that as much?

GEORGE PIPASIK: No, mainly on weekends because he was working on that for 18 hours [a day].

SZ: Sly worked so hard to get in such great shape for the latest Rambo movie. Why do you think that he didn’t have at least one scene where Rambo was shirtless?

GEORGE PIPASIK: He doesn’t want to take his shirt off. He doesn’t need to. You can tell right away with his clothes on if he's in shape or if he's not in shape. He looks so good, he doesn't need to.

SZ: Definitely. He looked in this RAMBO, 20lbs heavier?

GEORGE PIPASIK: Exactly right, he was 20lbs more heavy.

SZ: The neck, the traps, the outer delts and his FOREARMS.

GEORGE PIPASIK: That was his priority...he wanted to look like a jungle man. He was training very heavy and used that machine over there.” [SZ: - George points to a machine that he built -- the man is brilliant! Then it sets in again that Mtotry and I worked out on the same machines that Sly used in his preparations for so many great movies!]

SZ: For a movie like RAMBO…does Sly start training 3 months before or 4 months before filming is to start?

GEORGE PIPASIK: Yes, 3 months before...6 days a week. We get ready. Everything we do, but we start at the neck and his shoulders...that was priority. You start with what you need the most.. you need rest and then you get more from that.

SZ: What was the LEAST enjoyable shoot ? When you are on location, we've read about it, there's death threats...etc.

GEORGE PIPASIK: (quick to answer) RAMBO III! That was in Israel and 20 years ago. It was so, so hot there. It was unbelievable. It was dry, and there were a lot of flies. Even at night. In morning we came to hotel and it was 90 degrees at 4:00am in the gym. Every Rambo shoot is difficult. In Thailand it was 40' Celsius. We stayed in Thailand 3 months. He had bodyguards and police from Thailand traveling with us at all times.

SZ: During filming how close is your food intake to Mr. Stallone's? Do you guys eat together to make sure he's eating the right stuff?

GEORGE PIPASIK: Because he has his own cooks, [he eats] by himself. I eat mostly natural stuff. Natural protein. Sly eats protein shakes but I am pure natural. Mostly I eat eggs and fish.

SZ: We can’t help but comment on your bodybuilding days! We’ve seen the pictures of the development of your physique. It’s no wonder people came to you to help them develop their bodies. Who else besides Sly comes to mind as far as you training them?

GEORGE PIPASIK: Well, I mostly trained celebrities. I trained Arnold for 8 months...in early 1974.

SZ: Can you tell us your 3 favorite Sly films?

GEORGE PIPASIK. I like FIRST BLOOD. And ...ROCKY IV.

SZ: “Rocky IV” has got to be like going down memory lane for you.

(George smiles and nods. In all of his gallery of pictures, there is an interesting amount of him on the set of “ROCKY IV” that were a joy to look at. He also thoroughly enjoys talking, in depth, about the photographs and when they were taken. )

SZ: In recent years Sly has endorsed his own supplement line [INSTONE, and then S-Force]. You’ve said that you don’t take supplements, but prefer to get yours naturally.

GEORGE PIPASIK: Yes, all natural. I don't control what he takes. His supplements he does on his own, because he's met the best and knows so much.

SZ: How often do you work out?

GEORGE PIPASIK: Usually 5 times, but no less than 3 times a week.

SZ: Is it very structured, like 3 days on, one day off?

GEORGE PIPASIK: No, you have to switch combinations. Like my favorite is, chest and back.

SZ: Is there any actor or director that you would like to see Sly work with?

GEORGE PIPASIK: I can't tell with Sly. It's his decision whom he likes the best.

SZ: It seems like when you trained Dolph and Sly, they didn’t have a competitive bodybuilding look. They looked more athletic, more like Greek statues. Was that on purpose? Are there times they bulked up and then slimmed down, or was it all at once?

GEORGE PIPASIK: It was all at once. You have to work everything. It's what they wanted. But it's also genetic. Everyone is different. Not every exercise works for every one. What works for him, might not for me, might not for you.

SZ: Are you a big fan of cardio?

GEORGE PIPASIK: Yes. Cardio is the best. Weights and cardio. Always together a combination. And eating. Eating is 80% of it. When you start to exercise you need to eat, but if you don't watch what you eat, then you get fat.

SZ: Okay, that about wraps it up. We want to again thank you, Mr. Pipasik, for the time and valuable information you’ve provided us. Before we go, we’re hoping you can shout out to the "STALLONE ZONE," especially to Craig Zablo, who has kept this community and the hype going, could you do that?

GEORGE PIPASIK: Yeah, Hi Sly! (Please note: Mr. Pipasik made it clear he gets no e-mail or even near a computer and my guess is if he had, then we all know that "Hi Sly!" would have been a "Hi, to the SZ.". - Chris)

SZ: Thank you so much, we sincerely appreciate it.

GEORGE PIPASIK: Thank you. My pleasure.

-----
My thanks to George Pipasik for allowing us insight into his gym as well as some of his experiences with Sly Stallone.

Chris and MT respectfully waited months until Mr. Pipasik was able to see them. Mr. Pipasik runs a private gym and it is our hope that his graciousness with Chris Heathcoat and Mtotry don’t encourage overzealous fans to become a bother.

Thanks again to Chris and MT for sharing their experiences and photos with us. Also thanks to Carrisa for taking the photos! - Craig

SZ Exclusive Interview: George Pipasik, Part II

SZ: Tell us about the highlights of your career. I know that Sylvester Stallone was one of them.

GEORGE PIPASIK: First it started with Sly, then after. . .came many celebrities.

SZ: And Sly came just after a few months after you first opened?

GEORGE PIPASIK: Yeah, I opened and then yes, he soon came after. I was not in the business and [did not] know about how to advertise -- I make everything myself. So without advertising, people started coming. Mainly Hollywood people.

SZ: And the gym was open to the public?

GEORGE PIPASIK: Yes at first. But then we started getting too busy. So I made it a private club. Just one to one.

SZ: Isn’t it true that by the time Sly came to your gym he had already worked out with Franco Columbu twice.

GEORGE PIPASIK: Ah, yes. He was in my gym with him that second time. He [Sly] had lots of training before. In 1985 he [Sly] asked if I could train him and Dolph Lundgren for ROCKY IV.

SZ: WOW! Exciting, that is exciting.

GEORGE PIPASIK: So, it was January 1985, I started the training for ROCKY IV. Sly and Dolph. (It is at this time, more than any during the 2 hours we spent there, that Mr. Pipasik beams while telling the stories. It was unavoidable to notice that he really enjoyed telling about his FIRST experiences working with Sly which was one of the most famous times in his life.)

SZ: Knowing that you have trained every body part of Sylvester Stallone, when you look at all his films, is there a particular body part in the film...and you can see that THE GOAL was accomplished? For example while preparing “Rocky 4” I remember Sly saying he tried so hard for defined abs."

GEORGE PIPASIK: Every movie he gets better and better. It takes time. So.. He has a perfect body now.

SZ: Almost seems like a perfect body then !

GEORGE PIPASIK: Yeah, but he improves every year. Bodybuilding takes a long time. It doesn't happen over night.

SZ: (Chris looks down at his 'no ab's/dunlap over the belly) Yeah, we know that. So perhaps the only time he was ever out of shape, was because he got out of shape on purpose for Copland?

GEORGE PIPASIK: Yeah, with Copland, I could NOT believe it, he put so much weight on.

SZ: Does that mean you disassociated yourself with him? (laughing)

GEORGE PIPASIK: Ha ha, no! I am just surprised he came back. People who usually go that heavy DO NOT come back.

SZ: He actually said in interviews that he liked the extra weight and was going to keep it on. But then two months later, it was off.

GEORGE PIPASIK: It's all eating… 80% of it , is eating.
-----
[More to come... Craig]

SZ Exclusive Interview: George Pipasik, Part I

SZ: We know about your hard work helping Sly to get in shape for his films. We know that you appeared in “ROCKY IV,“ but what we don’t know is what made you get into bodybuilding yourself?

GEORGE PIPASIK: I used to play hockey. And it was very difficult in Czechoslovakia. During that time, I had met some friends and started lifting weights. I was 19 years old. And since that time, I have been lifting weights all the time.

SZ: When did you decide to make it your career ?

GEORGE PIPASIK: It was unexpected. I was supposed to open a gym with Arnold.

SZ: Arnold? As in Schwarzenegger? Who of course (respectfully laughing) is now our Governor?

GEORGE PIPASIK: Yes. I started building everything myself. In another place, split between L.A. After two years, he decided he didn't want to open his own gym, so he decided to go somewhere else. I decided to open a gym myself. That was December of 1982.

SZ: That's the official date of opening Santa Monica Bodybuilding Center?
GEORGE PIPASIK: Yes.
-----
[More to come... Craig]

Intro to SZ Exclusive Interview: George Pipasik

Hello fellow SZoners! WOW ! How exciting, to have been not just welcomed, but given a very cordial invite to the Santa Moncia Bodybuilding Center to get a tour, and even some unexpected training with LONG TIME Sylvester Stallone trainer, and of course his close friend, Mr. George Pipasik. Though this was not the first time a StalloneZoner had visited Mr. Pipasik (maybe most of you remember the exciting pictures that SZoner Judge Monty posted about a year ago), but this is StalloneZoners Maurice Totry and Chris Heathcoat's very first visit. Before we begin I want to personally "THANK" Mr. George Pipasik for our exclusive StalloneZone interview. For everything from the beginning of our first phone conversation, to the entrance into the gym with a warm hand shake and smile, to our exits with our own Santa Monica Bodybuilding Center shirts (a treat from George) we are very appreciative. What comes to mind, is some dialogue from Stallone's own RAMBO script. In the film actress Julie Benz is told by her co-star who played "Michael" that John Rambo is doing what he’s doing because “He's been paid." Julie’s character responds, “He didn’t take anything.“ Neither did George for all of his time, valuable information and gracious generosity.
Hope you enjoy,
Chris HeathcoatI want to thank Mr. Chris Heathcoat for making this happen. I have wanted to pursue this trip for about 15 years. If it were not for Chris being proactive, I would never have gone. This was an incredible experience to meet Mr. George Pipasik and to see where Sly trained for his most memorable roles. For Stallone fans this is as close to Mecca as you can get!
Hope you all like this interview…….. mtotry
[More to come... Craig]

Fan Art

Hi Craig,

I'm sending you paintings that I've painted last year. I'm a StalloneZone fan since the beginning and also a huge Stallone fan . It's gonna be an extreme honor for me to see my paintings posted on your website. Thank you very much.

Cheers! from Canada.

Francis Bourque

Ottawa,Ontario,Canada.

I'll send you a picture of my Rocky statue soon.
_____

Thanks for sharing the art! I'll post your statue photo once it arrives! - Craig

Sly & RockyPeru

SZoner, RockyPeru, checked in with a couple of photos. The first of him with Sly was taken two years ago. The second was from a recent trip to Philly to relieve the magic! Thanks to RockyPeru for sharing! - Craig

Sly Fan and Her Statue!

Hey Craig!

I finally got my own Rocky statue and I'm so excited! I'm a long time Stallone fan and have been a member of the SZ board for some time now. Thought you'd like to see this picture of me with my statue and some of my most prized possessions!

Thanks for all you do for us fans!

Jenn

'Velvetblasphemy'
_____
Yo Jen!

Aren't the Rocky statues the greatest? Thanks for letting me know how much you enjoy yours and for the kind words about the SZ! - Craig

Sly Fan Poster

Remember SZoner Joe, who wrote in saying that he was having his 50th birthday party at The Victor Cafe in Philadelphia [Adrian's restaurant in the Rocky Balboa movie]? Well, the party was a success and Joe sent us in this fan made Rocky poster comprised of small photos making the huge statue image. Very cool.

Thanks to Joe for sharing it with us. - Craig

Rambo in Costa Rica

Longtime SZoners will remember WallyStallone from Costa Rica. Wally sent in this photo of himself and a Rambo poster in Costa Rica. Wally reminds all SZoners: REMEMBER KEEP YOU STRONG AND DO NOT LET YOUR DREAMS GOOOO NEVER EVER CAUSE ONLY THE TOUGHEST SURVIVE IN THIS SAVAGE WORLD

WALLYSTALLONE COSTARICA
_____

Nice to hear from you, Wally! - Craig

Rocky Fan Tat

Dear Craig,

My name is Adam Proctor and I've been a Stallone fan since I learned how to walk. I love the Rocky movies and always wanted to see one in theaters. I was stationed in Afghanistan when the new Rocky came out in December, but luckily got to catch it in a small little run down theater. So I did get my big chance in a little place to see my favorite character. I recently got this tattoo and hoped you would post it on your page. I've been loyal to your page since it started in 96 . I check in every Sunday. Thanks Craig....
_____

No one can deny you're a Rocky fan! - Craig

Party @ Adrian's

Craig,

I am a diehard Stallone Fan. In three weeks I will be celebrating my 50th birthday with friends and family at The Victor Cafe in Philadelphia. Home of Adrian's restaurant in the Rocky Balboa movie. In preparation I have been working out with a trainer for several years and lost 25 lbs. over the last three months. My Rocky playlist is always running on my iPod while I am on the treadmill. I see you have posted other fans pictures on the site. How would you like to post my invitation on the site? I'm hoping Stallone will see it and show up for dinner and dessert with us. Open invite to Sly to attend if he is in the area. I understand he ate there regularly during the filming of the movie.

Invite attached.

Thanks

Joe

-----
Joe - have a happy birthday! - Craig

Bill Pruitt Rambo Painting

Hi Craig,

Here is my painting I wanted to send in full and with closeups. The 27"x40" painting was designed as a movie poster for "Rambo". I did all the graphics over the artwork in photoshop. As always "SLY" is hidden somewhere in the piece.

Thanks.

Bill Pruitt

Bill also sent in the photo above of Peter Manfredo with Bill! Thanks to Bill for sharing. - Craig

SZoner Premiere Photos

Hello Craig. Randy Rousseau here. We had a great time at the Rambo Premiere. I went with my father and Paul Wintner and his friend Mark. All Paul wanted was to get to meet Sly and maybe get a picture and have him sign his Rambo sheath. Well, mission done. I think he already sent you the photos but here are a few more. enjoy. Not only did We get Pauly's picture with the man, he was able to talked with him a while too.

P.S. check out the custom Rambo carpet!!!!!!!!

Paul Winter: Super Fan!

SZoner, Paul Winter dropped in to share photos of his autographed tickets to the Rambo premiere and another classic prop from his collection: Freddy's shirt from Copland. You can see more of Paul's great collection, read his movie reviews and more by clicking HERE. - Craig

Paul Winter

SZoner @ Rambo Premiere

Katy writes:

Hi Craig.

I wrote to you some time ago about the premiere. I'm also a super fan and did research and made it to Vegas for the red carpet!! They gave away a plethora of Rambo souvenirs (Including Rambo cookies) which were all free and fantastic! I'm thrilled that i saw my idol. I never expected I would do so.

Since people were sending their pics in I would be honored to be shown in my old school Rambo shirt at the premiere and am sending my pic of Sly too!

SZoner Meets Sly

Hello Craig,

My name is Jarred. I am a loyal StalloneZoner. I check every Sunday. These are exciting times for us Stallone fans. I went to the red carpet premiere for my B-day. We stayed at Planet Hollywood, and the red carpet was so packed and when Stallone finally showed up 5 minutes before they were gonna start the movie his people rushed him past all the fans. So I was highly disappointed but happy to be there. So the next morning we went to breakfast at a very good coffee shop in the casino. They sat us next to a large table, where Sly's mom was sitting. There was a few open seats at her table, my girlfriend suggested that he might show up. 2 minutes later he did. He sat for breakfast 4 feet from me, I could not believe it. His wife, kids and entourage were seated on the other end of the coffee shop. So he made a few trips back and forth. I snagged him one of the times. And got my prized picture!
-----
Congrats and thanks for sharing your photo and experience! - Craig

In the Eye of the Tiger

SZoner, Gerald Chuah sent in the drawing above [one of over 40] that appears in his book In the Eye of the Tiger: Survival Principles from Sylvester Stallone's Films. To learn more about the book, click HERE. - Craig

Rambo is Huge in Malaysia

SZoner, Ghostrecon wrote in with the photo above from Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia to say that Rambo is huge there. He saw Rambo on opening night and loved it! - Craig

French Rambo Site

Anthony wanted SZoners to know about his French Rambo site! - Craig

Mike Marcus is a Superfan!

SZoner, Mike Marcus saw "Rocky" when he was seven years old [31 years ago] and became an instant fan. Mike says that Sly's films have been a constant inspiration and that he uses many of Sly's training methods in his workout routines. Mike is also proud to say that his young son is also a Stallone fan. You can see them both along with some of Mike's Stallone memorabilia in the photos above and below. - Craig

Dustin Hennick is a Superfan!

On January 23rd, Dustin Hennick sent in the photo above of a piece of art that he created in hope that he could get Sly to autograph it at the "Rambo" premiere.

As you can see from the above photo Sly did sign it as his daughter looked on.

Sly signing Dustin's art was picked up by a couple of wire services!

Dustin sent in this close-up of Sly's autograph! Congrats and thanks to Dustin for sharing this experience with us. Hopefully we'll see more of Dustin's art in the future. - Craig

Robo Boda is a Superfan!

Robo Boda is a big Sly fan from the Slovak Republic. He sent in some pics of his Stallone collection and said that his most valuable piece is his 12" Rocky statue. You can see more photos of his collection at his webpage, www.sylvester-stallone.sk.

Thanks to Robo for sharing! - Craig

German Fan Site

Stephan Franck wants SZoners to know about his new German Sly Fan Page. Click HERE to get there! - Craig

Stuff in the Basement

SZoner, Paan, is a huge Stallone/Rocky fan. Check out Stuff in the Basement her very cool tribute site. - Craig

Rocky Christmas

SZoner, Cynthia sent in a photo of how a Rocky statue added to the Christmas decor. Remember, SZoners, if you have a photo of you and your Rocky statue, send it in and we'll post it. We'd love to see the Rocky statues from around the world! - Craig

PS - If you still haven't got yours, they are available from Thomas Schomberg, the man who created the original Rocky sculpture, for "Rocky III" by clicking HERE.

Two New Stallone Sites

Oskar is from Poland and wanted us to know about his Rambo website. - Craig

Andrey is the administrator of the first unofficial Russian site about Stallone . The cake was a gift from his sister on his 23rd birthday [December 3rd]! - Craig

SZ Exclusive: PH Opening Coverage

StalloneZoner, Randy Rousseau was able to attend the recent Planet Hollywood opening in Las Vegas. Not only did he and his family get to go, but they also met several celebrities including Sly!

Randy was especially excited to hear that John Rambo will premiere at the Las Vegas Planet Hollywood on January 24th! Hopefully Randy will be able to attend and send us back pictures and a report!

Randy's kids were able to get a photo with former N'Sync band member, Dancing with the Stars celeb and host of The Singing Bee, Joey Fatone!

Criss Angel was on hand for the festivities.

The great Sugar Ray Leonard posed for a shot with Randy and his son!

Milio Ventimiglia ["Rocky Balboa" and tv's smash hit Heroes] signed autographs...

... and posed for photos!

And of course Sly was there to kick off the festivities [He introduced Earth, Wind and Fire before their concert]...

... posed for photos with fans...

... spoke with friends and fans...

... and signed tons of autographs...

Thanks to Randy for another great StalloneZone exclusive! - Craig

Punchy vs Butkus

SZoner, Paul Winter recently added another great piece to his Stallone collection. His buddy, the extremely talented Randy Martinez created this cool painting of Punchy [with Paul in his corner] stepping into the ring to go a few rounds with Butkus [cornered by Rocky].

Cool idea and great execution! Thanks to Paul for sharing it with us! - Craig

Rocky Statue Contest

Hey SZoners!

I wanted to give you a heads-up on a contest that Schomberg Studios is going to run starting tomorrow and the prizes include free and discounted personalized Rocky Statues! Here are the details...

Win a ROCKY Sculpture Contest

All who purchase a 12" or a 20" ROCKY sculpture from November 5, 2007 until December 31, 2007 will be automatically entered into the contest plus all shipping costs on the 20” sculptures are free!

First Prize Winner

choice of a full refund of the sculpture they have purchased or a second free sculpture signed and personalized by the sculptor, A. Thomas Schomberg

Second Prize Winner

choice of a 50% refund of the sculpture they have purchased or a 50% discount from a second sculpture signed and personalized by the sculptor, A. Thomas Schomberg

Third Prize Winner

a 25% refund of the sculpture they have purchased or a 25% discount from a second sculpture signed and personalized by the sculptor, A. Thomas Schomberg plus all shipping costs on the 20” sculptures are free! The cast bronze limited edition sculptures are not included in the contest
-----
With the holidays quickly approaching, this contest couldn't come at a better time. Let family members know what you want now or consider the perfect gift for dad... heck, just buy one for yourself since you deserve it. Click HERE for ordering instructions.

Hopefully SZoners will take all three places! [And you know we'll post your pictures of you and your statue!]

New Stallone Fan Site

Jim Crater has started a new Sylvester Stallone site and he's off to a nice start. You can check it out by clicking HERE. - Craig

Sly and Fan

SZoner, Robert Federico from the London, wrote to say that he visits the SZ every week without fail and thinks its great. Robert is a huge Stallone fan and attached the picture taken on the set of "Rocky Balboa." Robert is also a collector of Rocky/Rambo lobby cards and plans to send in a picture of his collection. - Thanks to Robert for sharing! - Craig

SZoner Meets Sly & Frank

SZoner, Stephen Isa recently attended Seriesse International and was able to speak with Sylvester Stallone. Stephen also was able to take these pictures with him in Las Vegas on 10/20/07 at the Planet Hollywood Resort and Casino.

About a week earlier Stephen got a picture with Frank Stallone when he performed in New York City.

Stephen sends out a big thank you to Frank and Sly and we send one to Stephen for sharing the photos! - Craig

SlyCollecting.com

Last week SZoner Paul Winter sent in some pictures from his Sylvester Stallone collection. Now Paul is back with more photos of his very cool memorabilia as well as a link to his SlyCollecting.com site! - Craig

Rocky for the Holidays

Hey SZoners!

The holidays are quickly approaching and I wanted to remind everyone that Rocky sculptures are still available through A. Thomas Schomberg studios. These statues were created by A. Thomas Schomberg [who created the original Rocky sculpture seen in the Rocky movies] in collaboration with Sylvester Stallone and MGM studios. The sculptures make great gifts and there's a sculpture for every price range! I've had mine for nearly a year now and I smile with pride every time I pass it [several times a day]!

I've stayed in contact with Mr. Schomberg and his wife since my interview with him [part two of the interview is here] for the SZ. I recently checked to make sure that statues are still available and they are! In fact, with the holidays coming up, they are expecting a surge in sales -- so I thought it would be a good time to get your order in SZoners!

Remember, if you've purchases a statue, I'd love to post a picture of you with it! - Craig

Sly Fan's Collection

SZoner Paul Winter is not only the owner of Winter Talent Agency [check out his site], but also a fan of Sylvester Stallone movies.

Paul sent in a photo of him with Frank Stallone, as well as some pictures from Paul's collection: glasses from Rocky Balboa, autographed gloves and a ring signed by Sly and all of his opponents from the Rocky movies!





Paul, thanks for sharing! - Craig

Gatlinburg Sly

SZoner, Rob Hoskins checked in with the picture above and the e-mail below:

Hi Craig, Rob Hoskins here from Lexington, Ky. I recently visited the Hollywood Wax Museum in Gatlinburg Tennessee and here is what I found. Thought you'd like a look.

By the way, the site looks great! Keep Up The Good Work! - Rob

----- Thanks Rob! - Craig

SZoner @ AFI "Rocky" Screening

SZoner, Joshua Tapia sent StalloneZone an exclusive summary of his experience at the AFI "Rocky" screening:

Hi Craig, Just wanted to write in and share my incredible experience at the AFI 40th Anniversary screening of Rocky. Sorry I could not provide some photos but they were restricted and security was very tight. If we were caught with a camera we would be ejected from the theater.

So after sitting in line for hours and finally getting into the theater lobby we were able to get our hands on a AFI 40th Anniversary collectors book. Finally as we all sat down in our designated seats a member of the AFI entered the room to tell us that all the Film Legends were in a theater for a photo shoot and that they would soon be coming in for the presentation. It was at this time he told us of the surprise guest who would introduce Mr Stallone....none other than Talia Shire. The crowd responded with cheers and applause.

Finally around 7:30pm Talia Shire entered the room to applause. She took the stand and talked about how while making the film they never really said it but they all thought they were making something special. After a few more words she introduced the man himself Sylvester Stallone. As Stallone emerged from the entrance the crowd stood up to give him a standing ovation. Stallone took stepped up to the podium and thanked everyone for coming. He shared a few stories from the production about how when they showed up for the Ice Rink scene that he was told all the extras were not available, he also told us about how Talia Shire had the flu and he knew when he went in for that first kiss he knew he'd be sick the next day but he was so lost in the moment that he just forgot everything and kissed her.

Stallone finished his speech and thanked everyone again as we applauded him. As he made his way out a gentleman ran out of his seat with a copy of Stallone's last book SLY MOVES. This caused several other people to jump from there seat with stuff to autograph. Stallone being the great guy he is stopped and signed everything that was put in front of him. I saw this as my chance, i got up from my seat and made my through the crowd. As I did this the theater started to lower the lights so that people would sit down. Right before he exited i was able to walk up to him. As i approached him he looked at my hands as if he expected me to have something for him to sign. I just stuck out my hand and said "I would just like shake your hand and thank you for coming." Sly shook my hand and thanked me.

The lights went down and we watched the film. This was one of the best film going experiences i have ever had. Second would be last year when thanks to StalloneZone I got to see Rocky Balboa a week before it was released in Tampa and if not for StalloneZone I would of not of known about the AFI screening. Thanks Craig and keep up the good work. Joshua Tapia
------
Thanks for the write-up Josh. What a cool experience! - Craig

Rambo Support Group

The following information was forwarded to me by two operatives dressed in full military gear. Somehow I get the feeling that they are rouge agents.

Hey man check out this new Rambo fan site operationrsg.net.
It is for getting John Rambo to number one.
If all Rambo fans join the cause, we will shock the industry when the film is released.
Let your troops know.

SZoners, you now know. - Craig

Sly Movie Memorbilia

The photo above and e-mail below arrived in the e-mail this week.

Hi Craig, I just want to tell you what a great web site you have.

I am a movie memorabilia collector, and I collect Stallone stuff especially. I have a complete Sylvester Stallone outfit that he actually wore in the movie Daylight. It is complete with shirt, undershirt, pants, socks, and boots. I am sure you know the outfit. It is the one that he wears throughout the entire film. I have a bunch of photos with it. It came right from a Profiles in History auction, and has their tags. Profiles is one of the biggest auction houses in the world. I had the outfit on a mannequin with a Stallone mask. I just don't have the room anymore. I am asking $650.00 for it. I would also include all of the 8X10 photos, and the original movie with the box. I also have a Stallone face life cast that was made right from his head and neck for Cop land. I got that from Premiere Props, and it comes with their COA. I am asking $350 for that. Please let me know if you are interested, and if possible maybe you can list it on the Stallone Zone. I would be happy to give you 10% of the selling prices if you have somebody or can get me somebody to purchase. Thanks so much, Brett
-----
If any SZoner is interested in purchasing Brett's items you can contact him at BackDoor07@aol.com. Feel free to ask for the 10% discount that he offered me, since I don't know Brett or the authenticity of his items [he says he has Certificates of Authenticity], I wouldn't feel comfortable accepting a commission on the sale. - Craig

Balboa Band vs Red Elite

Sly Stallone and Rocky Balboa have provided inspiration to people around the world... and now they've inspired a band...called Balboa.

Here's what their press release says... At a combined weight of 1083 lbs., Balboa is a 6-man team of rock and roll warriors. With unfaltering determination, they play your favorite songs from the Rocky soundtracks. Songs included in the audio/visual spectacle will be "Eye of the Tiger", "Living in America", "No Easy Way Out", "Burning Heart", "Gonna Fly Now" and other training montage classics. The night of August 3rd, 2007 marks the band's live debut when they perform at The El Mocambo in Toronto, Ontario. Believe it or not, appearing with [against?] them is a band called The Red Elite [not Drago?].

Learn more about the Balboa Band at their myspace page. Any SZoners who can make the show should mention that they learned about it through the StalloneZone. Who knows, maybe they'll give you a break on the cover charge. - Craig

SZoner and his Rocky Statue

That's a photo of Patrick Guennoc, from the region called, Britain, in France. You can see from the photo that Patrick is a huge Stallone fan as he proudly displays his Rocky replica sculpture created by Thomas Schomberg.

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

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

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

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

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!

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

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