To whoever’s readin’ this,

I never thought I’d be the type to sit down and write one of these. I ain’t a writer. I’ve taken more punches than I’ve read books, but if there’s one thing life’s taught me, it’s that you don’t gotta be fancy with your words—you just gotta speak from the heart.

I started out as nothin’. Just another bum from the neighborhood. Nobody believed in me, and to be honest, I didn’t always believe in myself. But I kept showin’ up. Day after day. Round after Round. Not because I thought I was special, but because deep down, I knew I had more in me. That’s what I want you to remember—greatness ain’t born, it’s built. One day at a time. One round at a time.

I fought in the ring, yeah, but the real fights were always outside of it. Loss. Grief. Doubt. Life hits you harder than any opponent ever could. But you gotta keep movin’ forward and be willing to get knocked down to get what you want. That’s the legacy I leave. Not fame. Not fortune. Fighting with your heart, not just your hands. 

To my son, and to every underdog out there—don’t chase somebody else’s dream. Don’t try to be me. Be you. Stand up for what You believe in and never let anyone tell you who or what you can be. Even when your back’s against the ropes. And if you ever get hurt and feel like the world is pulling you down… just listen for that little angel whispering in your ear… 

Get up! Cuz’ Rocky loves ya!

Keep punching. 

—Rocky Balboa