Warning: This article contains spoilers for Creed III.Creed III showcased Adonis (Michael B. Jordan) in the most emotional fight of his career against childhood friend Damian (Jonathan Majors), all without his greatest mentor in his corner, and Sylvester Stallone's Rocky isn't expected to return in Creed IV either. After a seven-year time jump since Donnie's victory against Viktor Drago in Creed II, he owns a gym in Los Angeles and balances supervising the next generation of boxers with being a father and husband, far removed from The Italian Stallion and his life in Philadelphia, where the Rocky franchise has directed most of its focus. This move away from Rocky's roots is expected to continue.

https://screenrant.com/creed-4-sylvester-stallone-rocky-balboa-not-return/