If you’re a fan of sports drama movies like Rocky, you’re in for a treat! The genre is filled with inspiring stories of underdogs rising against the odds, showcasing both physical and emotional battles. Below, you’ll find a list of 14 movies that capture the same spirit as Rocky.
1. Raging Bull
Raging Bull is a biographical sports drama directed by Martin Scorsese and stars Robert De Niro. The film chronicles the turbulent life of boxer Jake LaMotta, whose self-destructive tendencies lead to a downward spiral in both his career and personal life.
2. Million Dollar Baby
Million Dollar Baby is a poignant story about a determined female boxer, Maggie Fitzgerald, played by Hilary Swank. Directed by Clint Eastwood, who also stars as her reluctant trainer, the film explores themes of perseverance and the complex relationships between coach and athlete.
3. Creed
Creed follows Adonis Creed, the son of Apollo Creed, as he seeks to make a name for himself in the boxing world. Michael B. Jordan stars as Adonis, with Sylvester Stallone reprising his role as Rocky Balboa, who becomes Adonis’s mentor.
4. The Fighter
The Fighter is based on the true story of boxer Micky Ward and his brother Dicky Eklund. Starring Mark Wahlberg and Christian Bale, the film delves into the challenges Micky faces both in the ring and within his troubled family.
5. Cinderella Man
Cinderella Man tells the true story of James J. Braddock, a boxer who made an improbable comeback during the Great Depression. Russell Crowe stars as Braddock, with Renée Zellweger playing his supportive wife.
6. Southpaw
Southpaw stars Jake Gyllenhaal as Billy Hope, a champion boxer who must rebuild his life after a tragic accident. The film, directed by Antoine Fuqua, highlights themes of redemption and the power of family.
7. Warrior
Warrior focuses on two estranged brothers who enter a mixed martial arts tournament. Starring Tom Hardy and Joel Edgerton, the film explores themes of family, forgiveness, and personal struggle.
8. Ali
Ali is a biographical sports drama about the life of boxing legend Muhammad Ali, played by Will Smith. The film covers key moments in Ali’s career and personal life, offering a deep dive into the challenges he faced both inside and outside the ring.
9. The Hurricane
The Hurricane stars Denzel Washington as Rubin “Hurricane” Carter, a boxer wrongfully imprisoned for murder. The film tells the story of Carter’s fight for justice and the people who helped him in his quest for freedom.
10. Hands of Stone
Hands of Stone chronicles the life of Panamanian boxer Roberto Durán, played by Édgar Ramírez. The film also stars Robert De Niro as Durán’s trainer, Ray Arcel, and explores the highs and lows of Durán’s storied career.
11. Requiem for a Heavyweight
Requiem for a Heavyweight is a classic film about a washed-up boxer named Mountain Rivera, played by Anthony Quinn. The movie delves into the struggles Rivera faces as he tries to find a new path in life after his boxing career ends.
12. The Great White Hope
The Great White Hope stars James Earl Jones as Jack Jefferson, a character based on real-life boxer Jack Johnson. The film addresses racial issues and the challenges Jefferson faces as a black boxer in early 20th-century America.
13. Rocky II
Rocky II continues the story of Rocky Balboa as he faces a rematch against Apollo Creed. Sylvester Stallone returns as Rocky, showing his journey from underdog to champion and the personal sacrifices he must make along the way.
14. Rocky Balboa
Rocky Balboa is the sixth installment in the Rocky series, featuring an older Rocky coming out of retirement for one last fight. Sylvester Stallone reprises his iconic role, delivering a heartfelt performance that explores themes of aging and legacy.
