It looks like Sylvester Stallone may be retiring one of his most famous characters… for good this time.

In a video the star posted to his Instagram Wednesday morning, which he said was filmed on his last day of Creed II’s principal photography, he addressed some of the cast and crew of that film, saying how much it meant to him that the character he created — and who became a pop culture staple — wasn’t ready to hang up the gloves.

“I just want to thank everyone around the whole wide world for taking the Rocky family into their hearts for over 40 years,” Stallone wrote along with the video. “It’s been my ultimate privilege to have been able to create and play this meaningful character. Sadly all things must pass…and end. Keep punching, I love you kind and generous people, and Rocky loves you, too.”

In the video, Stallone gives a brief speech.

“Well, this is probably my last rodeo because what I thought happened, and has happened, I never expected,” Stallone begins. “I thought Rocky was over in 2006 [Rocky Balboa]. And I was very happy with that.”

Stallone then shifts his focus to Creed and Creed II lead Michael B. Jordan, who stars as Adonis “Hollywood Donnie” Creed, the son of the late Apollo Creed.

“Then all of a sudden this young man presented himself and the whole story changed,” he says. “It went on to a new generation. New problems. New adventures.”

Creed and the recently released Creed II were both box office successes.

“And I couldn’t be happier as I step back because my story has been told, there’s a whole new world that’s going to be opening up with the audience, with this generation,” Stallone says, then to Jordan, “Now you, have to carry the mantle.”

Stay tuned for our review of Creed II, dropping later today!