linebacker turned actor known for playing Apollo Creed in the first four “Rocky” movies in an acting career that spanned more than four decades, died on Thursday. His family said that Mr. Weathers had “died peacefully in his sleep.” No cause of death was given. Mr. Weathers played the boxer Apollo Creed who fought against Sylvester Stallone in the “Rocky” movies. Over the course of his career, Mr. Weathers displayed his range in several roles on film and television. After retiring from playing in professional football, he pursued a career in acting in the 1970s.

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Persons: Carl Weathers, Rocky, Weathers, “, Apollo Creed, Sylvester Stallone, Chubbs Peterson, Happy Gilmore, ”, Adam Sandler, Greef, Chicago Justice ”, ” Mr Organizations: Chicago Justice, Chicago, Oakland Raiders, Canadian Football League