“A huge loss.” – The Hollywood Reporter

Carl Weathers and Sylvester Stallone

Mark Davis/Getty Images

Rocky Balboa himself, Sylvester Stallone, took a moment to honor his co-star Carl Weathers, who died Thursday in his sleep at the age of 76.

The two actors battled in the ring in the first two films in the popular boxing series, and remained friends in the decades following the final installment, 1985. Rocky IV.

Stallone shared a video on his Instagram account on Friday, reminiscing about Weathers and the time they spent together in their great films. In the caption, he wrote in part: “We lost a legend yesterday. My life changed forever for the better the day I met Carl Weathers.

And in the minute-long video Tulsa King The star explained that the film franchise wouldn’t be what it is without Weathers’ Apollo Creed.

“Today is a very sad day for me,” Stallone began the video. “I mean, I’m so torn up that I can’t even tell you. I’m just trying to hold on because Carl Weathers has been such an integral part of my life, my success, everything about it. I give him unbelievable credit and glory, because when he walked into that room, and I saw him for the first time… First, I saw greatness, but I didn’t realize how great it was.

He continued: “I would never have been able to achieve what we did with Rocky without him. It was absolutely wonderful. His voice, his size, his strength, his athletic ability, but most importantly, his heart, his spirit. “It’s a terrible loss.”

the Rambo The star explained that he was standing in front of an abstract painting of him and Weathers because it was probably the last moment they were in the ring together, and that’s something he’ll never forget.

“He was charming, and I was very lucky to be a part of his life,” he concluded. “So Apollo, keep hitting.”

Amazon MGM Studios also shared in a statement, “Everyone at Amazon MGM Studios is deeply saddened by the loss of the extraordinary Carl Weathers. Nearly 50 years ago, he brought to life one of the most iconic characters to ever grace the screen, Apollo Creed – a character who will live on In our cinematic lives. Carl has gone on to build an inspiring career defined by a true, Apollo Creed-like passion. This drive – combined with his incredible kindness and big heart – is a legacy that will live on in our industry and beyond for years to come. Our thoughts and deepest condolences are with Carl’s family and loved ones during this difficult time.

Happy Gilmore Director Dennis Dugan and star Adam Sandler also praised Weathers.