Rocky II was released in the United States in 1979.
United Artists released the sequel theatrically in the U.S. on June 15, 1979. The film follows Rocky Balboa immediately after his split-decision loss to Apollo Creed and explores the consequences of his sudden fame, including his attempt to build a life outside boxing.
Sylvester Stallone returned as Rocky, wrote the screenplay, and directed the sequel. Carl Weathers returned as Apollo Creed, who seeks a rematch after criticism that his first victory did not decisively settle the rivalry. The story culminates in their second fight, which has a different outcome from the original film.
A common mix-up comes from the gap between the films in the series. Rocky was released in 1976, Rocky II in 1979, and Rocky III in 1982. Thus, 1977 and 1980 are not the release year of Rocky II, while 1982 belongs to the next sequel.