In Rocky II, who wins the rematch between Rocky Balboa and Apollo Creed?

In Rocky II, Rocky Balboa wins the rematch against Apollo Creed.

The second film begins after the disputed ending of the first fight, in which Apollo wins by split decision. Both men initially consider retirement, but Apollo wants to prove that Rocky's performance was a fluke, while Rocky wants to establish himself as a legitimate contender.

The rematch is held in Philadelphia and becomes a demanding contest. Apollo controls portions of the fight, but Rocky survives the punishment and remains competitive. In the final exchange, both fighters fall, and Rocky rises just before Apollo can recover.

The official result gives Rocky the heavyweight championship. This victory changes his life, although later films show that fame, money, and the pressures of defending the title create new problems.