The forthcoming sequel to Michael B Jordan’s 2018 smash “Creed II,” dubbed “Creed III,” is one of the most anticipated films due out in 2023. The film, which marks Michael B Jordan’s directorial debut, will see Donnie Creed return to the ring against a foe from his past, Damian Anderson, played by Jonathan Majors, a boyhood acquaintance who resurfaces after serving a lengthy jail sentence.
However, the franchise’s creator and star Sylvester Stallone will not reprise his role as Rocky. Jordan recently spoke with Empire on the Rocky actor’s absence and how the franchise continues his legacy “in spirit.” “I think it’s in the spirit of Rocky, whose fingerprints will always and forever be on this franchise,” Jordan added. His essence is still present. At the same time, the Creed franchise is taking a powerful turn.”
Similarly, Sylvester Stallone has addressed his absence in the next film on social media multiple times, and in a recent interview, he called the scenario as a “regrettable predicament.” Stallone’s absence is mostly due to a quarrel with Rocky producers, whom he blames for not giving him credit for originating the brand and giving him no influence over it.
Creed III is set to be released worldwide on March 3, 2023. Tessa Thompson plays Biance, Wood Harris plays Tony “Little Duke” Evers, Florian Munteanu plays Viktor Drago, and Phylicia Rashad plays Mary Anne Creed.