Former WBC super-lightweight champion Devin Haney has fired back at Hollywood legend Sylvester Stallone over comments suggesting modern-day boxers are less resilient than their predecessors.
The controversy ignited when Stallone, famous for his iconic Rocky film series, went viral with remarks claiming today’s boxers have it easier compared to those of his era. The actor specifically pointed to differences in boxing gloves between the Rocky films and present-day equipment.
Haney, one of boxing’s current stars, took exception to Stallone’s assessment and delivered a sharp response on social media platform X: “Dude don’t know a left hook from a fish hook.. & got the nerve to speak on times being easier in boxing like he wasn’t just an actor.. buddy them rocky movies wasn’t real”
Despite Stallone’s status as a beloved Hollywood figure who has inspired generations of boxers through the Rocky franchise, his comments drew criticism from active professionals in the sport.
Looking ahead, Haney is scheduled to return to action after a year-long break to face Jose Ramirez. The event, part of the Riyadh Season card, will also feature Ryan Garcia competing against Rolando Romero. The outcomes of both matches could potentially set up a future rematch between Haney and Garcia.
How Tough Was Sylvester Stallone?
From his early days as a struggling actor to becoming an international icon, Stallone has consistently demonstrated an extraordinary capacity to endure physical and mental challenges.
His journey began with the iconic film Rocky, a script he wrote in just three and a half days, inspired by a real boxing match between Muhammad Ali and Chuck Wepner. Stallone’s commitment was so profound that he refused to sell the screenplay unless he could star as the lead, risking everything on his own talent and determination.
Stallone’s reputation for toughness isn’t merely theatrical. He voluntarily sparred with legendary boxers like Roberto Duran and Ernie Shavers, who was considered one of the hardest punchers in boxing history. In one memorable training session, Shavers hit Stallone so hard that he was sent reeling to the bathroom, throwing up from the impact.
His film work further solidified his reputation. During the filming of Rocky IV, scenes with Dolph Lundgren resulted in Stallone being hospitalized when Lundgren’s punch caused his heart to swell dangerously. In Rambo, he performed his own stunts, including a scene where he broke a rib during a cliff jump and continued filming through the pain.
Even in his later years, Stallone refused to slow down. In Rocky Balboa, at age 60, he took real punches from professional boxer Antonio Tarver. During The Expendables, he sustained injuries but continued working, even breaking his neck during a scene with Steve Austin.
“It ain’t about how hard you hit, it’s about how hard you can get hit and keep moving forward.”
