Sly Stallone to retire Rocky: 'Creed 2' is 'probably my last rodeo'

Michael B. Jordan and Sylvester Stallone back in 'Creed II'

Adonis Creed, played by Michael B. Jordan, faces off against the son of the Russian fighter who killed his father in "Creed II."

More than 40 years since Sylvester Stallone first embodied Philly fighter Rocky Balboa, he might finally be throwing in the towel.

In an Instagram video posted Wednesday after the opening weekend of spin-off film "Creed 2," Stallone announced, "This is probably my last rodeo."

Six movies, more than a dozen bouts, two spin-off films and one onscreen cancer battle later, Stallone implied that the "Creed" films should go on without him.

"I thought Rocky was over in 2006 (with the film "Rocky Balboa"); I was very happy with that. Then all of a sudden this young man presented himself (he gestured toward "Creed" star Michael B. Jordan) and the whole story changed. It went on to a new generation, new problems, new adventures."

Although Jordan's Adonis Creed has been the protagonist of the last two spin-off films, Rocky, aka "Unc," has remained the heart of the franchise, playing a pivotal role as mentor. His inspirational speeches from "Creed II" would make Mick proud.

"My story has been told. There's a whole new world that's gonna be opening up for the audience, this generation," Stallone said in the video.

"Creed 2" earned $35.3 million in the Thanksgiving weekend, far surpassing the first film's Thanksgiving debut in 2015. Its ending left room for Rocky to return for another "Creed" movie (which hasn't been confirmed but seems likely), but also provided closure for the character.

"Thank you very much, (director Steven Caple Jr.), and you, Michael, for making this all possible. Now you have to carry the mantle," Stallone said.

But then again, Rocky never stays down for long.

More: Michael B. Jordan's body transformation: How he got even more muscles for 'Creed 2'
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