In a tragic boxing match in 1975, a rising Russian boxer named Ivan Drago beat Apollo Creed to death. Decades later, Apollo’s son, Adonis Creed, crosses paths with Ivan’s son, Viktor Drago. The story revolves around their lives and the impact of their fateful encounter.
Donnie’s Journey and Rocky’s Guidance
After suffering a defeat against Conlan, Donnie Creed experiences a series of victories in major matches, culminating in winning the WBC World Heavyweight Championship. With his mentor Rocky by his side, Donnie becomes a celebrated figure, basking in fame and adoration from fans. He even proposes to his longtime girlfriend, Bianca Taylor, who agrees to marry him. However, Bianca longs for a fresh start in Los Angeles, while Donnie’s focus remains on his hometown of Philadelphia and his connection with Rocky.
Drago’s Return and Donnie’s Dilemma
Ivan Drago, once a highly revered boxer but now living a destitute life, sees an opportunity for redemption through his son Viktor. Ivan challenges Donnie to a match, hoping to rebuild his former glory. Rocky is wary of the Drago family’s intentions and disapproves of Donnie accepting the challenge. Despite Rocky’s reluctance, Donnie decides to face Viktor, pushing him and Rocky apart. Donnie and Bianca move to Los Angeles, but the quick pace of their new life causes Donnie to struggle with balancing training and personal commitments.
The Climactic Match and Redemption
On the night of the match, Donnie finds himself unprepared due to inadequate training. Viktor dominates the fight, delivering a relentless beating that shakes Donnie to his core. However, Viktor’s illegal hit while Donnie is down leads to his disqualification. Although Donnie retains his title, his confidence and passion are shattered. His relationship with Bianca also suffers as their love fades away. Concerned for her stepson, Mary Anne reaches out to Rocky, urging him to reconcile with Donnie. Rocky sets aside their differences and commits to training Donnie for a rematch.
A Journey to Redemption and Reconciliation
As Donnie trains under Rocky’s guidance, both physically and mentally, Ivan pushes Viktor to his limits through brutal methods. With Rocky’s unwavering support, Donnie enters the ring with renewed confidence and determination. The fight begins with both fighters exchanging powerful blows. To Viktor’s surprise, Donnie withstands the onslaught, deliberately enduring the punishment to exhaust his opponent. In the tenth round, Donnie unleashes a series of devastating blows, turning the tide of the match in his favor.
Despite his injuries, Viktor refuses to surrender, but Ivan realizes that his son’s life means more than empty validation from others. In a heartfelt moment, Ivan throws in the towel, ending the match and forfeiting Viktor’s World title. While Ivan consoles a devastated Viktor, Bianca celebrates Donnie’s victory. Rocky watches proudly from the sidelines.
Reconciliation and Moving Forward
The story concludes as Ivan and Viktor are seen training together in Ukraine, rebuilding their relationship. Rocky travels to Vancouver to reconcile with his estranged son and meets his grandson, Logan. Donnie and Bianca visit Apollo’s grave, where Donnie finds peace with his father’s legacy.