In Creed, which boxer defeats Adonis Creed in his first professional loss?

In Creed, Ricky Conlan defeats Adonis Creed in Adonis’s first professional loss. Their bout is the film’s climactic championship fight and takes place in Liverpool, England.

Conlan is an established light heavyweight champion facing a younger and less experienced challenger. Adonis enters the fight with momentum but must overcome the pressure of being Apollo Creed’s son. Although Conlan wins by split decision, Adonis earns respect by lasting the full distance and performing far better than expected.

The result is important because the film does not require Adonis to win the title in order to establish him as a serious boxer. His courage and performance show that he can create a reputation separate from his father’s achievements.

Ricky Conlan is played by English boxer Tony Bellew. The character is fictional, but his public image and professional status provide the obstacle that tests Adonis’s preparation under Rocky’s guidance.