In 2020, Keisuke Itagaki, the creator of the manga “Baki the Grappler,” paid tribute to Hollywood’s iconic action star, Sylvester Stallone. To mark the release of “Rambo: Last Blood” in Japan, Itagaki drew an illustration based on the movie’s poster featuring Stallone.
The movie had been highly anticipated since its initial discussion in 2008 and finally debuted in 2019. The story follows Rambo, a former soldier, on a mission to rescue his niece from a Mexican cartel.
While “Rambo: Last Blood” premiered in the United States in September 2019, it took another year for its release in Japan. To celebrate this occasion, Gaga Production approached Itagaki to create a special gift for Stallone, who is admired by many Hollywood stars.
Itagaki’s illustration, blending his signature Baki Hanma artistic style, depicted an intense close-up of Stallone, reminiscent of Baki’s father, Yujiro Hanma, known for his muscular physique that even shows on his face.
The illustration received praise and contributed to the movie’s success in Japan. After watching the film, Itagaki himself commended Stallone’s performance, noting, “Rage and revenge—these are what keep Rambo going.
As long as those motivations exist, Rambo can continue to return.” Stallone surprised and honored by the gesture, shared his appreciation for Itagaki’s work, revealing their connection dating back to 2010 when they met.
Stallone expressed his admiration for Itagaki’s martial arts-themed manga through a social media post, emphasizing what a privilege it was to meet the legend in person.
