Real-Life Boxers Join Rocky Spin-Off "Creed"

THR reports that Champion boxer Andre Ward and British champion boxer Tony Bellew are in negotiations to join the cast of the spin-off film to the Rocky series titled "Creed".

The story will feature Michael B. Jordan as the grandson of Carl Weathers' Apollo Creed character.

"Fruitvale Station" filmmaker Ryan Coogler co-wrote the screenplay with Aaron Covington, that sees Apollo's grandson has no desire to box and yet possesses the gifts and potential of his grandfather. He needs a mentor and seeks out retired fighter Rocky Balboa (Sylvester Stallone) who isn't eager to return to the boxing world, even as a trainer.

The young Creed will take on a savage opponent named Pretty Ricky Porter (Bellew).

The project was Coogler's idea in the first place.

Stallone, Kevin King, Irwin Winkler and Robert Chartoff will produce.

Filming aims to begin in January in Las Vegas and Philadelphia.