Explore every episode of the podcast Going The Distance: The Rocky Series Podcast

Ryan flies solo for this installment of Going the Distance as he continues the Rocky V breakdown.

After the emotional street conversation with Adrian, Rocky tracks down his son outside a hoagie shop where Robert is smoking with Chicky and the crew. What follows is one of the film’s most important father-son scenes: an olive branch, a talk about deceptions and mistakes, the cigarette thrown to the ground, and the simple, powerful “home team” moment that brings them back together.

The episode then jumps to the Union Kane vs. Tommy Gunn title fight. Rocky watches from the basement, still calling out advice as if he’s in the corner. Tommy wins by knockout, thanks George Washington Duke instead of the man who got him there, and the crowd makes its feelings clear. Robert’s quiet drawing and Paulie’s offer of a drink close out a stretch that is equal parts reconnection and quiet heartbreak.

Ryan also opens the Skype lines live (with mixed results), plugs The Worst of the Best Podcast, and shares some thoughts on Joker (2019) as a contrast in filmmaking craft.

If you enjoy these Rocky deep-dives, check out The Worst of the Best Podcast. Follow Ryan at @RyanRebalkin and the Rocky feed at @GTDRockyPodcast.

Ryan is joined by special guest host Adrian Wallet (Arcade Attack Retro Gaming Podcast) for one of the most emotionally charged stretches of Rocky V.

Robert and Rocky finally sit down and hash out their issues after the Christmas blow-up. Adrian reaches her limit — she calls out Tommy and makes an urgent plea to Rocky to put their family first before everything falls apart. At the same time, Rocky makes one last desperate attempt to keep Tommy from crossing over to George Washington Duke’s side, begging him not to go to the “dark side.”

Ryan and Adrian break down the father-son reconciliation attempt, Adrian’s powerful stand for the family, and Rocky’s heartbreaking realization that he may be losing both his son and his fighter in the same breath.

Adrian Wallet hosts the Arcade Attack Retro Gaming Podcast — check it out at arcadeattack.co.uk, like them on Facebook, and follow @ArcadeAttackUK and @arcade_adriano on Twitter/X.

If you enjoy these Rocky deep-dives, also check out Ryan’s other show, The Worst of the Best Podcast. Follow Ryan at @RyanRebalkin and the Rocky feed at @GTDRockyPodcast.

Ryan and guest host Kyle continue their Rocky V breakdown with one of the most emotionally charged stretches of the film.

It’s Christmas at the Balboa house. Adrian does her best to decorate and hold things together. Paulie is drunk and loud. Robert has finally had enough of watching his father pour everything into Tommy Gunn and unloads on Rocky in a raw, painful confrontation. At the same time, George Washington Duke makes his move and starts hustling Tommy away from Rocky’s corner.

Ryan and Kyle dig into the family blow-up, Robert’s long-building resentment, Paulie’s holiday antics, Adrian’s quiet efforts to keep the peace, and the exact moment Tommy begins slipping into Duke’s orbit. Classic Going the Distance mix of scene detail, character talk, and honest reactions to how messy (and effective) this sequence is.

Kyle is back in the guest chair. If you enjoy these Rocky deep-dives, also check out Ryan’s other show, The Worst of the Best Podcast. Follow Ryan at @RyanRebalkin and the Rocky feed at @GTDRockyPodcast.

Ryan and guest host Kyle dig into one of the most frustrating stretches of Rocky V: the slow-motion collapse of Tommy Gunn.

What started as a hungry street fighter looking for guidance turns into something else once the wins start piling up and George Washington Duke begins circling. Ryan and Kyle break down the shift in Tommy’s attitude, the warning signs Rocky either misses or chooses to ignore, the growing distance between mentor and fighter, and how the “sinking ship” starts taking on water long before the final street fight.

Expect the usual Going the Distance mix of scene details, character analysis, continuity notes, and honest talk about whether Tommy was ever really built to last under Rocky’s wing.

Kyle is back in the guest chair. If you enjoy these Rocky deep-dives, also check out Ryan’s other show, The Worst of the Best Podcast. Follow Ryan at @RyanRebalkin and the Rocky feed at @GTDRockyPodcast.

Ryan and guest host Kyle continue their Rocky V breakdown with one of the most satisfying moments in the film: Robert finally stands up to his bully.

After getting pushed around, losing his coat, and watching his dad pour everything into Tommy Gunn, Rocky Jr has had enough. In the schoolyard he confronts Chicky, lays him out, and takes his coat back. Ryan and Kyle dig into the fight itself, how the earlier training montage quietly set this moment up, what it means for Robert’s character, and why this small victory feels so earned.

Classic Going the Distance mix of scene details, continuity notes, and honest talk about the father-son tension running underneath it all.

Kyle is back in the guest-host chair. If you enjoy these scene-by-scene Rocky talks, also check out Ryan’s other show, The Worst of the Best Podcast. Follow Ryan at @RyanRebalkin and the Rocky feed at @GTDRockyPodcast.

Ryan Rebalkin and guest host Kyle continue their Rocky V breakdown with one of the film’s longest stretches: Rocky and Tommy visit Father Carmine for a blessing, then launch into Tommy’s rise-through-the-ranks montage.

They cover the church scene and the “angel on your shoulder” talk, Tommy’s first pro fight in the same gym Rocky fought Spider Rico, the over-the-top newspaper headlines that keep calling him Rocky’s boy/clone/robot, and the parallel story of Robert training on his own with Jimmy (Mike) and Paulie while his dad is busy with the new kid. Plenty of talk about Rocky living vicariously through Tommy, time jumps, writing choices, and whether those headlines would ever actually get printed.

Kyle is back in the guest chair. If you enjoy this kind of scene-by-scene Rocky talk, also check out Ryan’s other show, The Worst of the Best Podcast (every major app, YouTube, Facebook, and X). Follow Ryan at @RyanRebalkin and the Rocky feed at @GTDRockyPodcast.

00:00 – Intro from Quebec, Ruben update, Worst of the Best plug, and the Patreon rant  
07:02 – Quick Stallone news: thoughts on the female Cliffhanger remake  
08:22 – Rocky and Tommy visit Father Carmine for the blessing  
11:34 – “Angel on your shoulder” and forcing Tommy through Rocky’s journey  
14:54 – Training/fighting montage begins (church gym callback to Rocky 1)  
19:45 – Rocky’s pep talk: fear is a fire, heart and fire  
26:09 – First knockout and the start of Tommy’s winning streak  
29:57 – Robert watching, split lip from Chicky, feeling replaced  
32:39 – Blue Horizon, speed bag struggles, and “Balboa’s pupil” headlines  
39:27 – Rising venues, “Rocky’s clone” and “Rocky’s robot” headlines  
45:38 – Rocky running with Tommy, Adrian calling from the pet shop  
51:02 – One-arm push-ups and playful father-son time in the ring  
55:31 – Rocky gives Tommy Apollo’s stars-and-stripes trunks  
57:17 – Madison Square Garden, crowd chanting Tommy’s name  
1:00:11 – The stairs scene and Tommy’s cartwheel  
1:02:11 – Wrap-up and what’s coming next (Chicky rematch incoming)

Ryan Rebalkin welcomes first-time guest host Craig from SlyCast – The Sylvester Stallone Fan Podcast as they continue their scene-by-scene Rocky V breakdown. The Balboas are settling (uneasily) back into the old neighborhood, and Rocky Jr’s problems at school aren’t over. Chickie and his crew come back around, and this time they lay Robert out again.

The guys also dig into one of the more quietly awkward family moments: does Robert still wet the bed? That question, the second schoolyard confrontation, and how Rocky tries to be both father and trainer all get unpacked with the usual mix of trivia, continuity notes, and honest talk about what this chapter of the saga is actually trying to do.

Craig makes his Going the Distance debut and brings the SlyCast energy. If you enjoy Stallone deep dives, check out SlyCast as well.

Ryan’s other show, The Worst of the Best Podcast, is available on every major podcast app, YouTube, Facebook, and X. Follow Ryan at @RyanRebalkin and the Rocky feed at @GTDRockyPodcast.

Ryan Rebalkin and guest host Kyle sit down for the next chapter of their Rocky V breakdown: Tommy Gunn having dinner at the Balboas’. The young fighter is now in the house, the family is trying to make it work, and one question keeps coming up — did Adrian use too much garlic?

They unpack the dinner scene, the awkward family dynamics, how Tommy is settling in (or isn’t), and what this quiet little sequence is really setting up. Plenty of the usual deep-cut observations, continuity notes, and honest talk about whether this stretch of the movie actually works.

Kyle is back in the guest-host chair. If you like this kind of scene-by-scene Rocky talk, also check out Ryan’s other show, The Worst of the Best Podcast (every major app, YouTube, Facebook, and X). Follow Ryan at @RyanRebalkin and the Rocky feed at @GTDRockyPodcast.

Ryan Rebalkin and special guest Kyle pick up the Rocky V breakdown right where they left off. The Balboas are back in the old neighborhood, and Rocky Jr immediately finds out the schoolyard plays by prison rules. Chicky (Kevin Connolly) and his crew size up the “rich kid,” a jacket gets stolen, and the graffiti on the wall quietly nods to Rocky and Mick.

Then it’s over to Mighty Mick’s Gym, where Rocky is training amateurs, Paulie is hustling a used coffee cup with “lip marks” for five bucks, and a hungry young fighter named Tommy Gunn (Tommy Morrison) walks in looking to prove himself. What starts as sparring quickly turns personal. Rocky sees too much of his old street-fighter self in the kid and has to decide whether he’s ready to step into Mickey’s old role.

Plenty of deep-cut observations along the way: the Jimmy/Mike continuity headache, the “kajones” pronunciation mystery, visual callbacks to Rocky 1, and why this “failure” of a fifth film actually set up everything that came after.

Ruban couldn’t make this recording, so Kyle steps in as guest host extraordinaire.

If you like this kind of movie-by-movie, scene-by-scene breakdown, check out Ryan’s other show **The Worst of the Best Podcast** (available on every podcast app, YouTube, Facebook, and Twitter). Follow Ryan at @RyanRebalkin and the Rocky show at @GTDRockyPodcast.

00:00 – Intro, naming the show, Rambo location ideas (Hope, BC and the Philly steps)  
02:31 – Kyle’s honest take on Rocky V and why it aged better than expected  
06:39 – Playground scene: Rocky Jr, the high fence, “Rocky and Mick” graffiti, and Chicky’s crew  
15:00 – The beatdown and stolen jacket  
18:23 – Mighty Mick’s Gym: Rocky training amateurs and the return of Jimmy (Mike?) Gambina  
24:02 – Paulie sells a used coffee cup with lip marks for $5  
27:40 – Tommy Gunn walks in and asks to fight  
31:31 – “Kajones” pronunciation debate and script continuity roast  
35:29 – Sparring gets out of hand: no headgear, full power shots, Rocky sees red flags  
40:22 – Post-spar conversation: “You fight like a street fighter” and Tommy asks to be managed  
45:06 – Tommy Morrison’s real name on the gear + visual echo of Rocky and Mickey  
50:49 – Wrap-up, The Worst of the Best plug, and checking the credits for Jimmy’s name

 Ryan, Ruban, and guest host Andrew pick up after the Mickey flashback as the Balboas settle back into the old neighborhood.  

We cover Rocky giving Robert street advice on the walk to school, neighborhood scams, the cut Little Marie scene, the introduction of Tommy Gunn, and the tense confrontation with George Washington Duke outside the pet shop where Adrian firmly shuts down the fight offer.  
 
00:00 Live Start & Ruben Joins  
01:46 Recap of Mickey Flashback  
05:49 Smoking Talk & Chevy Nova  
07:52 Back in the Neighborhood  
09:20 Street Advice to Rocky Jr.  
12:13 Coat Scam Setup  
14:22 Little Marie Cut Scene  
16:45 Urban Blight & Aluminum Siding  
32:45 Tommy Gunn Introduction  
37:16 George Washington Duke Confrontation  
42:21 Adrian Intervenes  
45:52 Closing Scene & Thoughts  

  We cover the emotional auction of the Balboas’ belongings, Rocky Jr. on the motorcycle, Rocky reconnecting with his old clothes and past, the visit to Andy’s bar and Mighty Mick’s Gym, the powerful Burgess Meredith Mickey flashback (including the Rocky Marciano cufflink), moving back into Paulie’s place, and George Washington Duke’s opportunistic phone call to Adrian.  

00:00 Live Start & Missing Ruben  
01:20 Auction / Garage Sale Scene  
05:19 Rocky Jr. on the Motorcycle  
08:39 Attic / Old Clothes Scene  
12:08 Going to Andy’s Bar  
13:51 Mighty Mick’s Gym  
15:05 Mickey Flashback Begins  
19:14 Cufflink Gift Scene  
20:30 Flashback Discussion & Timeline  
25:34 Moving Back to the Neighborhood  
30:10 George Washington Duke Phone Call  
32:13 Closing & Next Episode Tease  

Ryan and Ruban dig into the shocking revelation that the Balboas have lost everything thanks to Paulie’s power-of-attorney mistake, the shady accountant, and the irreversible brain damage diagnosis.  

We cover Adrian’s powerful performance, the real-lawyer cameo, Rocky in glasses, the cavum septum pellucidum explanation, the emotional “if you love somebody” scene, newspaper headlines, and more. Special thanks to Trisha Morrison for the Tommy Gunn jacket note.  

00:00 Live Start & Recap  
01:39 Adrian vs Paulie Argument  
04:43 Power of Attorney Explanation  
06:51 Father Carmine Chat Question  
09:37 Rocky Statue & Blame Game  
12:48 Lawyer Scene & Real Lawyer Note  
14:16 Rocky in Glasses Trivia  
16:59 Mickey’s Gym Nest Egg  
23:41 Doctor Visit & Brain Scans  
26:49 “Simply Stated… Brain Damage”  
28:18 Adrian’s Emotional Plea  
31:02 Newspaper Headlines & Auction  
32:50 Tommy Gunn Jacket Note  
33:12 Closing Thoughts  

Continuing our Season 5 Rocky V breakdown on Going the Distance! Ryan, Ruban, and special guest Andrew pick up right where we left off at the airport press conference as Adrian announces Rocky’s retirement.  

We dig into Rocky’s reaction, the over-the-top reporters, the limo ride home, the changing Balboa houses across the series, the almost-robot from Rocky IV, Rotten Tomatoes scores, and the sweet (and funny) father-son scenes — including Rocky Jr.’s drawing of his French teacher, the “mushroom” joke, Russian currency, and the goodnight kiss.  

Huge thanks again to Andrew for joining us live.  

00:00 Live Start & Voice Apology  
01:05 Andrew Returns & Recap  
02:50 Adrian Announces Retirement  
04:12 Rocky’s Reaction & Press Pressure  
08:53 Union Cane & George Washington Duke  
10:46 Cindy Roberts Reporter Note  
14:38 Limo Ride & House Continuity  
15:50 The Missing Robot  
16:51 Rotten Tomatoes Scores Discussion  
24:55 Rocky Jr.’s Room & Artwork  
27:51 French Teacher Drawing Scene  
32:51 “Mushroom” Joke & Russian Money  
34:43 Born Again / Better Life Talk  
38:30 Goodnight Kiss & Cultural Notes  
43:17 Closing & Thanks  

This is our Season 5 opener and the first live guest recording as Ryan and Ruban welcome local Rocky fan and boxing enthusiast Andrew to break down Rocky V.

We cover the 1990 box office numbers (far from a flop), teenage theater experiences, how the film deliberately returned to the roots of Rocky 1 & 2 after the spectacle of 3 & 4, the Burgess Meredith/Mickey flashback inspired by Cus D’Amato and young Mike Tyson, the airport press conference, George Washington Duke, and more.

Huge thanks to Andrew for joining us live for this special occasion.

00:12 Intro & Episode 101 / Season 5 Kickoff
00:53 Guest Andrew Introduction
03:04 Rocky V Box Office & “Flop” Myth
06:19 Initial Theater Reactions as Teens
08:52 Street Fight Ending Debate
09:48 Original Ending Where Rocky Dies
12:41 Burgess Meredith / Mickey Flashback
13:28 Cus D’Amato & Mike Tyson Inspiration
16:38 John G. Avildsen Returns as Director
39:43 Timeline & Rocky Jr. Age Issues
41:23 Airport Press Conference Scene
48:53 George Washington Duke Arrival
53:30 Adrian Announces Retirement – Cliffhanger
54:40 Closing & Thanks to Andrew

Join Ryan for an amazing interview with stand-up comedian Joe Matarese!

Joe Matarese is a South Jersey/Philadelphia-area comedian known for his sharp, autobiographical material about family, neuroses, marriage, parenting, and everyday life. He’s appeared on America’s Got Talent (standing ovation), The Late Show with David Letterman, The Howard Stern Show, Comedy Central, Chelsea Lately, and more. He has four one-hour specials available for free on YouTube: Medicated, The Poster’s Wrong, Mullets and Mixtapes, and Almost Sold Out.

His current tour is called “It’s In The Wooder.”

Find everything about Joe here:
Website: http://www.joematarese.com/
Instagram / TikTok / X: @TheJoeMatarese

Robert Doornick, creator of the iconic SICO Robot from Rocky IV, joins the podcast! Robert shares how SICO was designed as a therapeutic tool for special needs children, his connection to Stallone via his autistic son, on-set stories, voice work, future of robotics, and more. A fascinating look at the man behind one of Rocky’s most memorable characters.

Trisha Morrison, widow of Tommy Morrison (Tommy Gunn in Rocky V), joins the podcast for a heartfelt interview. Trisha shares stories from Tommy's room filled with memorabilia, their meeting, his personality, health journey, Rocky V, and legacy. Emotional, honest conversation touching on bullying, faith, and keeping Tommy's memory alive.

Tim Carr, best known as Rocky Jr.'s friend in Rocky Balboa, joins the podcast for a lively interview! Tim shares stories from the Rocky set, working with Stallone, his roles in Species, All My Children (Colton), Homicide: Life on the Street, playing Ryan Leaf, directing, and more. Packed with laughs, listener interaction, and classic acting tales.

Ira Green, powerful Italian rock vocalist known for her fiery covers of “Eye of the Tiger” and “No Easy Way Out,” joins the podcast! Ira shares her musical journey from Pink Floyd and Nirvana to grunge/metal, her emotional story of bullying and growth, appearing on The Voice Italy, her album Rebellion, and how her boyfriend Marco introduced her to the Rocky films. Plus her Philly visit with Mike Kunda and plans for a new Italian-language album.

Robert Tepper, the voice behind the iconic Rocky IV montage song “No Easy Way Out,” joins the podcast for a candid conversation. From his New Jersey roots and early music days to writing the hit, landing it in Rocky IV, the Cobra soundtrack, and life as a Grammy-nominated artist, Robert shares heartfelt stories, Stallone anecdotes, and even teases an acoustic version.

Jim Toscano joins the Rocky Series Podcast to discuss his feature documentary The Pretender about Mike Kunda — the ultimate Rocky Balboa impersonator and Philadelphia tour guide. Jim shares how he met Mike on the Rocky Balboa set, the 5-year journey turning a 5-minute idea into a 55-minute film, family interviews, Detroit screening reactions, and the heart behind capturing one man's dedication to the Rocky legacy.

Ryan and Ruban celebrate on Ruban's couch with a special milestone episode wrapping up Rocky IV season. They read heartfelt listener emails, share fan stories (meeting Stallone, childhood memories, Rocky pajamas), recap favorite interviews, debate Creed II moments, Dolph Lundgren in Aquaman, and look ahead to Rocky V. Full of laughs, appreciation, and that classic "keep punching" spirit.

We went the distance with Rocky IV! We watch the epic final fight in Moscow as Rocky Balboa faces Ivan Drago on Christmas Day. Packed with play-by-play commentary, laughs over Paulie’s heartfelt moment, the robot Sicco, crowd flips, brutal punches, Tony’s corner wisdom, and that unforgettable “If I Can Change” speech. Plus Vancouver filming trivia, 80s nostalgia, and full credits discussion.

00:00 Intro & Starting the Final Fight
01:31 Moscow Broadcast & Christmas Tree Talk
03:38 Paulie’s Heartfelt Moment & Man Kiss
06:00 Crowd Energy & Rocky Jr. at Home
08:47 Drago’s Entrance & Vancouver Filming Trivia
12:23 Fight Instructions & Round 1 Breakdown
16:54 Round 2 Chaos, Cuts & Trainer Brawl
19:03 Music Montage & Crowd Turning
23:36 Crowd Flip to Rocky & Drago’s Struggle
27:59 Knockout Punch & Post-Fight Celebration
31:22 Rocky’s Iconic “If I Can Change” Speech
35:02 Ending Reactions, Credits & Podcast Wrap

Deep dive into Rocky IV’s training sequences in Episode 14 of Going The Distance! Guest Kyle joins to break down Paulie roasting marshmallows to Alvin and the Chipmunks, Tony Duke’s heartfelt talk with Rocky about training alone, the epic side-by-side montages (Rocky’s raw nature training vs Drago’s high-tech steroid-fueled sessions), and Adrian’s surprise return with “No Matter What” support leading into the “Hearts on Fire” montage.

Join us for a fun deep dive into Rocky IV as we break down the scenes right after the "No Easy Way Out" montage! Big Gun Doug from the Rocky Minute podcast joins to discuss Paulie’s nagging robot, Rocky’s heartfelt bedroom talk with his son, the epic Survivor "Burning Heart" training arrival in Russia, Tumi luggage trivia, and Paulie’s hilarious complaints in the snow. Packed with movie analysis, laughs, and Rocky lore.

Doug plugs his show — check out Rocky Minute for daily Rocky content!

00:00 Intro & Guest Welcome
01:57 Rocky IV Post-Montage Discussion
04:51 No Easy Way Out Montage Talk
06:15 Tumi Luggage & Paulie’s Plaid Suitcase
09:29 Paulie & the Robot Scenes
15:48 Rocky’s Bedroom Talk with Son
24:00 Iconic “One More Round” Speech
36:00 Survivor Burning Heart Russia Arrival
42:10 Paulie in the Snow & Complaints
52:50 Training Setup & Final Thoughts

In this special live episode of Going the Distance – The Rocky Series Podcast, Ryan and Ruban break down Apollo Creed's funeral and the explosive press conference that follows in Rocky IV.

They discuss Rocky's emotional (and short) eulogy, leaving the championship belt on the casket, the media frenzy, protests, Drago's team trash-talking, Ludmilla's fears, and Rocky's decision to fight in Russia on Christmas Day with zero purse. Plus live chat banter, keto updates, split-diopter theories, and more "warts and all" fun as they watch the scenes together.

A heartfelt, funny, and fan-filled discussion on one of the most pivotal moments in the franchise that sets up the epic Rocky vs. Drago showdown.

• 0:00 - Live Intro & Viewer Chat
• 2:20 - Apollo's Funeral Scene & Blurred Extras Conspiracy
• 9:55 - Rocky's Eulogy: "What He Died For"
• 16:56 - The Championship Belt on the Casket
• 20:01 - Magazine Montage & Protests
• 23:58 - Press Conference Begins: Drago's Coach & "Science"
• 30:57 - Ludmilla Speaks & Media Backlash
• 33:11 - Paulie vs. Drago's Team Trash Talk
• 34:38 - Wrapping the Press Conference & Final Thoughts

In this episode of Going the Distance – The Rocky Series Podcast, Ryan is joined by special guest host Big Gun Doug Greenberg from the Rocky Minute podcast for a deep, scene-by-scene breakdown of the brutal exhibition fight between Apollo Creed and Ivan Drago.

From Apollo's showmanship and "born again" foreshadowing, the intense size disparity and Drago's devastating power, referee Lou Filippo's inaction, Tony "Duke" Burton's desperate pleas, Rocky's anguish, and the heartbreaking conclusion with Drago's cold "If he dies, he dies," we explore the violence, themes, behind-the-scenes stories (including Carl Weathers & Dolph Lundgren tensions), cultural context (Joe Louis vs. Max Schmeling), and why this PG-rated beatdown still hits hard.

We also touch on Apollo's motivations, pride, family, and legacy that carries into the Creed films. A raw, fun, and emotional discussion between two massive Rocky fans!

• 0:00 - Intro & Welcoming Big Gun Doug Greenberg
• 2:58 - First Rocky Memories & Clubber Lang Trauma
• 8:02 - Announcers, West vs East, & Historical Inspirations
• 11:32 - Apollo & Rocky's Debt to Each Other
• 15:00 - Leroy Neiman, Ring Setup & Crowd Energy
• 20:46 - Drago Entrance & King Kong Analogy
• 28:15 - Pre-Fight Instructions & Trash Talk
• 30:07 - Round 1: The Brutal Beatdown Begins
• 42:40 - Between Rounds – Apollo's "No Matter What"
• 50:50 - Apollo Down & "If He Dies, He Dies"
• 54:38 - Drago's Lines & Post-Fight Chaos
• 1:00:56 - Final Thoughts on Rocky IV & Outro

Welcome to The Rocky Series Podcast: Going the Distance — Episode 9 of our Rocky IV coverage!

Ryan and Ruban break down the iconic exhibition fight entrance between Apollo Creed and Ivan Drago — the dramatic ring reveal, James Brown’s legendary “Living in America” performance, the over-the-top Las Vegas dancers, Drago’s stunned reaction, and Apollo’s show-stopping entrance.

We discuss the symbolism (King Kong vibes, golden calf), the crowd’s excitement vs. the audience’s dread, Rocky’s growing concern, and why this sequence is pure 80s spectacle.

If you love Rocky IV deep dives, 80s movie analysis, and brotherly banter, this one’s for you.

0:00 – Intro, housekeeping & listener story (Cobra Kai fan)
3:24 – Drago’s underground entrance & Russian trainer pep talk
6:52 – Arena reveal & “Living in America” buildup
9:18 – James Brown performance & Las Vegas dancers
14:20 – Apollo’s grand entrance & golden calf symbolism
19:30 – Rocky, Tony & Paulie’s reactions
22:45 – Apollo vs. Drago stare-down & tension
27:50 – Final thoughts & “Ding ding” sign-off

Welcome to The Rocky Series Podcast: Going the Distance — Episode 8 of our Rocky IV coverage!

Ryan and Ruban dive into the tense press conference scene between Apollo Creed and Ivan Drago, plus the emotional locker room moment with Rocky and Apollo. We break down Apollo’s over-the-top bravado, Drago’s intimidating silence, the building tension, and Rocky’s growing concern for his friend’s safety.

We also discuss the timeline correction from listener Henry, give a shoutout to the late Burt Reynolds, and thank our growing community of listeners and reviewers (including the Wizard of Words).

If you love deep Rocky analysis, brotherly banter, and classic 80s movie moments, this one’s for you.

0:00 – Intro, housekeeping & iTunes review shoutout (Wizard of Words)
2:00 – Facebook & Twitter growth thanks
5:15 – Press conference scene begins (magazine covers)
7:40 – Apollo’s “American style” bravado
11:30 – Drago’s silence & Apollo’s quick wit
14:10 – Drago’s wife speaks & tension rises
17:50 – Rocky’s concern in the locker room
21:45 – “You sound like an old man” & timeline discussion
24:50 – Burt Reynolds tribute
27:30 – Final thoughts & “Ding ding” sign-off

Special Creed II Trailer Breakdown episode! Ryan is joined by frequent guest Kyle for an emergency hot-take on the brand-new Creed II trailer.

We go scene-by-scene through the entire trailer — training montages in the desert and Philly, the two fights, Drago Jr.’s intense training in Russia, Rocky’s tough love conversation with Adonis, Bianca’s pregnancy, the weigh-in stare-down, and that epic ring entrance with the fireball.

We speculate on fight locations, who’s in whose corner, whether Adonis loses the first fight, Rocky’s guilt over Apollo, and why this trailer feels completely different (and way better) than the first one. Plus tons of Rocky series deep lore and brotherly banter.

If you love Creed, Rocky IV callbacks, and nerdy trailer breakdowns, this one’s for you.

0:00 – Intro & Kyle’s Rocky Series guest history
2:27 – Why we’re doing this emergency trailer breakdown
4:22 – First reactions to the new Creed II trailer
7:08 – Desert training montage & Rocky IV parallels
10:26 – Outdoor sparring ring & medicine ball scene
12:09 – “It’s time, kid” & Rocky’s advice
14:17 – Bianca & Mrs. Creed conversation
17:09 – Baby reveal & timeline speculation
19:17 – Drago Jr. training in Russia
21:45 – Rocky vs. Drago Sr. stare-down & weigh-in
24:45 – Ring entrance with fireball & Russian symbology
27:00 – Second fight predictions & body shot theory
32:50 – Final thoughts & “Ding ding” sign-off

Welcome back to The Rocky Series Podcast: Going the Distance — Episode 6 of our Rocky IV coverage!

Ryan and Ruban break down one of the most emotional and pivotal scenes in the entire franchise: Apollo and Rocky watching old footage of their Rocky II fight and having a raw heart-to-heart about legacy, identity, change, and what it means to be a warrior.

We dive deep into Apollo’s motivation to fight Drago (“without some war to fight, the warrior might as well be dead”), Rocky’s wise advice about changing your trajectory, the foreshadowing of the Creed movies, and why this conversation hits so hard. Plus plenty of tangents — Ruban’s old cable access show, Carl Weathers’ underrated MVP status, Tom Petty, Spud Webb, and more.

If you love in-depth Rocky breakdowns, brotherly banter, and honest film discussion, this one’s for you.

0:00 – Intro, housekeeping & iTunes review shoutouts
6:45 – Scene breakdown: Apollo & Rocky watching Rocky II footage
9:20 – Apollo’s “you’re ancient history” comment & real-life fame discussion
14:05 – Heart-to-heart: “Is this fight against you?”
17:40 – Warrior identity, legacy & “without some war to fight…”
21:10 – Personal stories: Ruban’s cancer advice & “new normal”
24:50 – Carl Weathers as the true MVP of the first four movies
29:00 – Foreshadowing Creed & Apollo’s final grin
32:50 – Outro & “Ding ding” sign-off

Thanks to all our listeners and reviewers (especially Dave Massey, Rene Tungate, Bob O’Rourke, Doug from Rocky Minute, and SavvyM01). Your support means everything.

Ryan is joined by our good friend Kyle Pederson, who steps in to help with hosting duties on this episode of Going The Distance.

In Rocky IV Episode 5, the guys discuss the simple setup that somehow takes the entire episode to break down — full of laughs, deep dives, and classic Rocky vibes.

How amazing is this episode? After a 4-month hiatus, Ryan and Ruban are finally back on The Rocky Series Podcast!

In this return episode, the brothers break down the **Creed II Trailer**, share an incredible piece of Rocky II clarification/trivia, and actually source Sylvester Stallone in the process — all thanks to their good friend and Rocky documentarian **Derek Wayne Johnson** (director of “40 Years of Rocky: The Birth of a Classic,” narrated by Stallone himself).

You’ll hear the full story behind the trivia, see the photo of Derek with Sly (Ryan wishes he was in that picture 😂), and get their fresh take on the Creed II trailer.

Special thanks to Derek Wayne Johnson for the incredible Rocky connection!

Join Ryan and Ruben as they continue dissecting Rocky IV in this fun and lively episode of The Rocky Series Podcast!

In this part of the journey, the brothers break down:
- Ivan Drago’s terrifying punching power and what makes him such a beast
- The further idiocy and hilarious moments of SICO the Robot
- Plus plenty of laughs, fan comments, and classic 80s Rocky vibes

Ryan and Ruban are back with another fun and lively episode of The Rocky Series Podcast as they continue their journey through Rocky IV!

In this episode, the brothers dive into some of the most memorable (and hilarious) moments early in the film:
- Apollo Creed swimming with his 3 hairy dogs in the pool
- Apollo’s insanely advanced giant TV (way ahead of its time — and yes, they compare it to SICO the Robot!)
- Ivan Drago’s dramatic arrival in the USA
- Drago’s wild real-life connection to Grace Jones
- Ludmilla Drago as the ultimate diplomat and her powerful presence

Recorded live with online guests chiming in and plenty of laughs along the way!

If you love the over-the-top 80s vibes, iconic characters, and behind-the-scenes fun of Rocky IV, this episode is for you.

Join Ryan and Ruban as they kick off the epic journey through Rocky IV! 

In this live-recorded episode, the brothers break down the explosive opening scenes of Rocky IV — from Apollo Creed’s tragic fight against Ivan Drago, James Brown’s unforgettable performance, to the intense Cold War vibes that set the tone for the entire film.

They also dive into what Sylvester Stallone was up to between Rocky III and Rocky IV, discussing the movies he made during that gap. The show was recorded live with online guests chiming in throughout, and Robert Tepper makes multiple cameo appearances (including his iconic song “No Easy Way Out”)!

Whether you're a die-hard Rocky fan or discovering the series for the first time, this is the perfect start to one of the most iconic entries in the franchise.

Special thanks to all our live viewers and Robert Tepper for the fun cameos!

In this fun and fascinating episode of The Rocky Series Podcast, host Ryan sits down with actress, singer, psychic medium, and Rocky III dancer Patty Negri!

Patty shares her unforgettable experience working on Rocky III (1982) — from being a “Rocky Girl,” getting personally picked by Sylvester Stallone to sing backup with Frank Stallone on the song “Take It Back,” earning her SAG card, and how she still receives residuals from the film decades later.

But that’s just the beginning! The conversation dives deep into the paranormal as Patty opens up about:
- Her lifelong gifts as a psychic medium (talking to spirits since age 3)
- Real stories from Ghost Adventures and her own séances
- Crossing over spirits, house clearings, and dealing with dark energy
- Shadow people, extraterrestrials, past lives, and dream work
- Why fear feeds negative entities and how to protect your space

A perfect mix of Rocky nostalgia and mind-bending spiritual discussion!

👉 Listen to Patty’s Rocky III moments and hear how Stallone stood up for her on set.

Patty Negri’s Website: https://pattynegri.com

Timestamps:
00:00 - Intro
01:03 - Introducing Patty Negri
02:40 - Patty’s Rocky III story & singing with Frank Stallone
05:33 - Getting her SAG card thanks to Sylvester Stallone
07:19 - Working with Stallone on set
10:33 - From Rocky to the spirit world
15:45 - Patty’s earliest psychic experiences
24:00 - What happens when we die?
31:40 - Ryan shares his childhood paranormal experiences
42:18 - Shadow people encounter
44:52 - Childhood encounter with gray beings

If you love Rocky movies or the paranormal, this episode is for you!

Join Ryan (@RyanRebalkin) as he sits down with Derek Wayne Johnson (@derekwaynejohnson), the director and producer of the acclaimed documentary John G. Avildsen: King of the Underdogs!

In this incredible interview, Derek shares his passion for bringing the story of John G. Avildsen — the Oscar-winning visionary behind Rocky, The Karate Kid, and so many inspiring underdog tales — to life. We dive into Avildsen's journey, the heart behind his iconic films, rare insights from the making of the doc, and why his name deserves to be celebrated more.

It was a real pleasure and full of genuine movie love — expect heartfelt moments, behind-the-scenes energy, and motivation to go watch (or re-watch) those classics!

Be sure to check out and buy John G. Avildsen: King of the Underdogs — available on Prime Video, Amazon, and more platforms. 

Join Ryan (@RyanRebalkin) and special guest host Kyle Pederson as we bring the Rocky III journey to an epic close!

Tonight, we wrap up the entire film — diving into the high-stakes rematch tension, the raw evolution of Rocky, the unbreakable bonds formed along the way, and why this ending delivers such massive emotional payoff. We tease the glory, the heart, and the ultimate triumph without giving away the punches... you'll feel every moment when you watch!

Expect laughs, deep movie insights, fan debates, and pure nostalgia. Don't miss the finale discussion!

Join Ryan (@ryan.rebalkin) and Ruban (@rebalkin) live for Episode 59 of the podcast — and tonight we finally reach one of the most uplifting and beloved sequences in the entire Rocky saga: the Rocky III training montage!

Rocky and Apollo are having the time of their lives — running on the beach, laughing together, embracing, grooving to the music, and rebuilding that fire in a way that feels genuinely joyful. It’s flashy, it’s fun, it’s heartfelt, and it’s the turning point we’ve all been waiting for.

We break down every moment, the music (obviously), the bromance, the energy shift, the 80s vibes, and why this montage still feels so damn good to watch.

Join Ryan and Ruban as they take a close and heartfelt look at one of the most beloved and emotionally raw scenes in the entire Rocky franchise: the famous Rocky & Adrian beach scene in Rocky III.

After struggling to fully commit to Apollo’s high-energy training, Rocky finally sits down with Adrian on the beach and tells her the real reason he hasn’t been training properly. Fear, doubt, pressure, and the shadow of Mickey’s death all come pouring out in one of the most vulnerable moments Rocky Balboa ever has on screen.

We break down the writing, the performances, the quiet power of the ocean backdrop, Adrian’s perfect response, and why this scene remains a high point of the series — even decades later.

Join Ryan and Ruban as they continue their journey through Rocky III — and this one gets complicated fast.

Rocky truly cannot sing, cannot dance… but Apollo Creed is determined to transform him into something flashy and new, training him with all the showmanship and swagger he’s got. Meanwhile, Paulie keeps throwing curveballs that make it very hard to root for him — and even harder to defend him through a modern lens.

We don’t shy away: the guys navigate the jungle of political correctness, cringe-worthy lines, character complexity, and how these moments land today. Is Paulie redeemable? Is Apollo’s training genius or pure 80s cheese? We dig in.

Join Ryan and special guest host Kyle as they dive into the early moments of Rocky III — specifically the beginning of Apollo Creed’s bold attempt to retrain Rocky Balboa in his own flashy, high-energy style.

We explore how Apollo starts reshaping Rocky, the cultural clash, the 80s showmanship, and the electric dynamic between the two fighters. But things take a darker turn when Paulie lets his true colors show — particularly regarding race — in ways that are impossible to ignore today.

This episode doesn’t shy away from the uncomfortable moments. We talk about what these scenes meant then, how they land now, and what they reveal about the characters and the era

Join Ryan and Ruban as they tackle one of the most talked-about and eyebrow-raising moments in the entire Rocky series: the scene where Apollo Creed propositions Rocky!

Yes, you read that right. Things get flirty, things get bold, and yes — we all get curious. Ryan and Ruban break down the context, the tone, the 80s energy, the subtext (or lack thereof?), and why this scene still sparks so much conversation among fans today.

Is it pure 80s bravado? A deeper character moment? Just pure fun? We go there.

Ryan is once again joined by fellow Canadian and passionate Rocky fan Tyler Morgan for this emotional continuation.

This episode dives into two of the heaviest moments in Rocky III:

• Mickey’s heartbreaking death and what it truly means for Rocky
• Rocky’s devastating loss in the ring at the hands of Clubber Lang

We close the episode with the incredibly moving cast tribute to Burgess Meredith featuring words from:
Sylvester Stallone, Burt Young, Talia Shire, and Carl Weathers

Also in this episode:

• Tyler shares his children’s book (link below)
• We talk about his comedy work with The Live Dudes

📖 Tyler’s children’s book: https://www.amazon.ca/dp/B01IFZEA6G
🎤 The Live Dudes comedy: @thelivedudes
📺 YouTube: @livedudes

Ryan is joined by fellow Canadian and die-hard Rocky fan Tyler Morgan for a heartfelt and fun episode of Going the Distance!

In this one we focus on one of the most emotional threads in the entire Rocky series: Mickey’s ailing health and what it means for Rocky, the story, and the fans. We also cover plenty of other classic Rocky moments, memories, and discussion points that only true fans will appreciate.

Plus—Tyler talks about his own comedy work with The Live Dudes!
Check out their comedy here:
TikTok/Instagram: @thelivedudes
YouTube: @livedudes

Ryan and Ruban celebrate this huge milestone by tearing into one of the most awkward and hilarious moments in the entire Rocky saga: Rocky’s failed training sequence in the hotel room from Rocky III. Mickey’s frustration boils over, Rocky can’t help but ham it up for the cameras, and Paulie… well, Paulie does what Paulie does best when it comes to selling stuff.

Is this the low point of Rocky’s preparation or secretly genius character work? We unpack the comedy, the cringe, and everything in between.

Thanks for sticking with us through 50 episodes—here’s to many more! Drop your thoughts below: what’s your favorite (or least favorite) Rocky training moment?

Join Ryan and Ruban as they reunite for an electrifying deep dive into Rocky III! Get ready for insights on the tension-filled statue unveiling that sets the stage for chaos, plus Clubber Lang's unforgettable showdown where he throws down the gauntlet—and something extra cheeky aimed at Adrian. Will this spark fly or fizzle? Tune in to hear their takes on these classic moments that keep the Rocky saga legendary.

Rocky tries to serenade Adrian with a late-night performance of "Take Me Back"… only to end up in one of the craziest charity matches ever against the Mountain of Molten Lust himself — Thunderlips (Hulk Hogan)!

In this episode of Going the Distance, we break down the iconic bedroom scene, Adrian’s hilarious singing attempt, and the complete Thunderlips vs Rocky charity fight with tons of laughs, wild observations, and classic 80s Rocky energy. Plus, we had some glorious live technical difficulties to start the show.

Expect non-stop banter, Stallone trivia, and pure Rocky III chaos.

Join Ryan, Ruban, and special guest Kyle as we dive into one of the wildest and most chaotic scenes in Rocky III!
Season 3 rolls on as we unpack Paulie's drunken night of "fun" that lands him behind bars, followed by his explosive confrontation with Rocky in a gritty parking garage brawl. What the heck is going on with this guy? Is Paulie just comic relief, or is there something deeper beneath the booze and bad decisions?

This episode is packed with laughs, heated debates, and classic Rocky character analysis—perfect for fans who love the messy, human side of the franchise. Don't miss it!