GRUDGE MATCH 2
THE SEQUEL WE DIDN’T KNOW WE NEEDED: ‘GRUDGE MATCH 2’ IS A KNOCKOUT!
The geriatric boxing legends are back! GRUDGE MATCH 2 (2025) sees Henry “Razor” Sharp (Sylvester Stallone) and Billy “The Kid” McDonnen (Robert De Niro) forced out of retirement again, but this time the stakes are personal, intergenerational, and absolutely hilarious.
The genius of the first film was pitting Rocky against Raging Bull, but the sequel expands the universe by focusing on the legacy of their hatred. Razor and The Kid now have to deal with their children and grandchildren—all of whom have inherited their grandfathers’ stubbornness and boxing genes. The chemistry between Stallone and De Niro is still gold; their geriatric banter feels genuinely sharp, reminding you why these two are icons.
WHAT MAKES THIS REMATCH A MUST-SEE
Fresh Blood: The introduction of younger boxers, perhaps the grandkids of Razor and The Kid, brings a much-needed energy to the training montages and fight scenes. Seeing the old guys reluctantly mentor the new generation while still trying to settle their own score provides some brilliant comedic relief and heartfelt moments.
The Comedy: While the boxing is still intentionally clunky and focused on their age (a source of much of the humor!), the real laughs come from the supporting cast. A returning comedy superstar (like Kevin Hart in the original) anchors the promotion side, leading to some unbelievably viral, laugh-out-loud marketing stunts that are perfect for the FB-era.
Heart & Hilarity: The film successfully balances the cheesy sports movie tropes with genuine emotional weight. It’s a story about forgiveness, old age, and proving that your passion never truly fades, even if your knees do. It hits hard, both literally and figuratively!
If you loved the original’s tongue-in-cheek nod to boxing history, you’ll cheer for this sequel. It’s an unexpectedly fun ride that proves some grudges are worth keeping alive for the cinema!
