This archive report was first published on 20 September 2019.
Thirty-four years have passed since Sylvester Stallone and Dolph Lundgren faced off in Rocky IV. The film catapulted both actors to stardom, but their initial encounter was far from friendly. In a recent appearance on The Tonight Show, Stallone revealed that he hated Lundgren when they first met.
Stallone described Lundgren as 'the real Terminator,' citing his imposing physique and chiseled features. 'He was just too good looking—too perfect,' Stallone said. 'And if I loathe him, I'm sure the world will.'
Stallone was on the hunt for a villainous character in Rocky IV and wanted someone who embodied a 'big, horrible, vicious guy.' Lundgren's 6'5 frame and wide shoulders made him an ideal fit for the role of Drago. Stallone even joked about Lundgren's 'proceeding hairline,' saying, 'He looks like a guy from 1,000 years in the future. This is not a guy you see waiting on your table.'
Despite their rocky start, Stallone and Lundgren have become close friends and collaborators. They are reportedly working on a new project, The International, and may even star in a new Expendables film. Neither project has an announced release date.
— Evan Romano, Associate Editor for Men's Health
