The Moment Sylvester Stallone Was ‘Punched by Mel Gibson’ and Loved It

When Sylvester Stallone and Mel Gibson joined forces for The Expendables 3 in 2014, it marked a unique collaboration between two iconic action stars. While the film, released on August 15, 2014, was part of the star-studded Expendables franchise, it also offered fans the rare opportunity to see Stallone and Gibson share the screen. Their on-screen chemistry and dynamic, particularly in a memorable fight scene, translated into real-life camaraderie, as Stallone has since shared in interviews, reflecting on their enjoyable time working together.

The Context of the Collaboration

The Expendables 3 brought together a cast of action legends, including Stallone, Jason Statham, Arnold Schwarzenegger, and new additions like Gibson, who portrayed Conrad Stonebanks—a former ally turned bitter adversary to Stallone’s character, Barney Ross. Their characters’ rivalry added to the high stakes of the film, culminating in a series of explosive action sequences. Among these, a standout moment was the intense fight scene between Stallone and Gibson, which captured the physicality and passion that defined their collaboration.

Despite the intense nature of their roles, Stallone has since revealed that working with Gibson was both rewarding and fun. The production, filled with larger-than-life personalities and a seasoned action-packed cast, fostered an environment of mutual respect and enjoyment.

Stallone’s Reflections on Their Partnership

In multiple interviews from the film’s promotional period, Stallone spoke warmly of his experience with Gibson. During a joint press conference, Stallone lightheartedly remarked, “It was great being punched by him,” referring to their physical confrontation in the film. This comment not only emphasized the fun Stallone had on set but also showcased the lightheartedness that underpinned much of their working relationship, even in the midst of demanding action sequences.

Stallone didn’t hold back in praising Gibson’s abilities, describing him as “a great actor” who was “very fast, very strong.” This acknowledgment of Gibson’s skill both on and off the screen highlights the respect Stallone has for his co-star, emphasizing that their dynamic was rooted in professional admiration.

A One-Off Collaboration

Though their on-screen time together in The Expendables 3 was widely discussed during the film’s promotional activities, this collaboration remains their only joint project. After researching their respective filmographies, including resources like Rotten Tomatoes and Letterboxd, it’s clear that Stallone and Gibson did not appear together in any other films. This exclusivity makes Stallone’s reflections even more meaningful, as they are tied specifically to their work on this particular project.

The pairing of Stallone and Gibson in The Expendables 3 was a highlight for many fans of the action genre, especially considering their shared history in iconic action films. Their characters’ rivalry on screen, contrasted with their positive and playful interaction off screen, added an extra layer of enjoyment to the experience.

A Lasting Impact

For Stallone, working with Mel Gibson in The Expendables 3 was an experience he cherished. The actor’s comments about enjoying his time with Gibson and the physical nature of their roles indicate a strong bond between the two. Stallone’s respect for Gibson’s talent, coupled with their shared enjoyment of the project, speaks to the genuine camaraderie that can arise even in the most physically demanding films.

As Stallone continues to reflect on his storied career, the time spent with Gibson on The Expendables 3 remains a standout moment, offering both actors the chance to come together for a fun, memorable collaboration that will forever be a highlight of their cinematic legacies.