'Rocky' spin-off starring Michael B. Jordan in the works

Sylvester Stallone will return to one of his most recognizable characters in a new spin-off. This time, Rocky steps up to coach to the grandson of his friend, Apollo Creed.

The Rocky saga, which already stretches across six films and three decades (1976-2006), will soon continue in a spin-off film. According to Deadline.com, MGM has greenlighted the project, which is the brainchild of Ryan Coogler.

At age 27, the director has already made waves in the cinema world through his first feature film, "Fruitvale Station," a hit at both the Sundance and Cannes festivals. To play the leading role in the spin-off, Coogler is reportedly looking no further than the main actor in "Fruitvale Station": Michael B. Jordan.

Currently titled "Creed," the film will tell the story of how Apollo Creed's grandson convinces Rocky Balboa to come out of retirement and become his coach. Carl Weathers played Apollo Creed, Rocky's rival turned friend, from 1976 to 1985. The character died in the ring in "Rocky IV."

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