In a recent documentary about the production of “Rocky IV,” Sylvester Stallone opened up about a brutal incident on set that landed him in the hospital. The iconic actor revealed that he was hit hard by Dolph Lundgren, who played the massive Soviet boxer Ivan Drago in the film.
Stallone described the impact as being equivalent to being thrown against a steering wheel after a car accident. He initially didn’t feel anything out of the ordinary but later started experiencing discomfort in his chest. Little did he know that this would lead to a health scare.
“When my blood pressure shot up to 260, they thought I was going to be talking to angels,” Stallone recounted. Prompt medical attention was crucial, and he was immediately flown from Canada to St. John’s Hospital in Santa Monica, California. For four days, Stallone found himself in the intensive care unit, surrounded by nuns.
Despite this harrowing experience, Stallone’s determination and resilience pushed him to return to set and complete the film. He couldn’t imagine ruling out the scene that included the chest-hit by Lundgren. It was an integral part of the story, showcasing the challenges that Rocky Balboa faced against Drago.
“Rocky IV” is the fourth installment in the beloved “Rocky” franchise, with Stallone reprising his role as the tenacious fighter Rocky Balboa. In this film, Balboa has already proven himself as the world boxing champion. Motivated by revenge for the death of his friend Apollo Creed, he travels to the Soviet Union to confront the formidable Drago.
Through this behind-the-scenes glimpse into Stallone’s experience, we gain a greater appreciation for the dedication and sacrifices that go into creating a legendary film like “Rocky IV.”
