The upcoming biopic revisits the struggle behind one of Hollywood’s biggest success stories

A new Sylvester Stallone biopic is shining a light on one of the most unbelievable origin stories in Hollywood.

Before Rocky became a global hit, Stallone was broke, unknown and taking huge risks just to get the film made.

And he nearly gave it all up.

The actor famously wrote the Rocky script in just a few days, pouring everything into a story he believed in while struggling to get by.

At the time, he was so short on money that he had to sell his dog just to stay afloat.

But the biggest decision came next.

Stallone was offered a life changing $360,000 for the script, on one condition. He would not star in it.

He said no.

Instead, he held out for a deal that allowed him to play Rocky himself, even though it meant taking a much smaller payday.

It was a gamble that changed everything.

The film went on to become one of the most iconic boxing movies ever made, turning Stallone into a global star and earning him far more in the long run.

And there was one more full circle moment.

After the film’s success, Stallone tracked down his dog and bought him back, paying far more than he originally sold him for and even giving the new owner a small role in the film.

Now, that story is heading to the big screen.

The upcoming biopic I Play Rocky, starring Anthony Ippolito as Stallone, will explore the struggles behind the film’s creation, including the risks that almost cost him everything.

Because before the fame, it really was all or nothing.