In Rocky V, which promoter persuades Tommy Gunn to leave Rocky's training?

In Rocky V, George Washington Duke persuades Tommy Gunn to leave Rocky’s training.

George Washington Duke is a boxing promoter who sees commercial potential in Tommy Gunn. Rocky has been training Tommy after being forced to retire, but Rocky cannot provide the money, exposure, or professional opportunities that Tommy wants. Duke uses those ambitions to draw Tommy away from Rocky.

Tommy signs with Duke and adopts the nickname “The Machine.” His career rises quickly, but the relationship damages his connection with Rocky and makes him appear disloyal to the trainer who developed him. Duke later encourages Tommy to confront Rocky publicly after Tommy loses respect from fans and boxing insiders.

The promoter is fictional and should not be confused with real boxing promoters who share the surname Duke. His role is to represent the commercial pressures surrounding professional boxing and the temptation of rapid success.