It was because of Paulie that Rocky met, dated, and married his sister Adrian, and it was at the meat factory that Paulie worked at where Rocky began his unique training method of punching the meat carcasses. Stallone still has flat knuckles to this day because he took this role and training very seriously…and did a number on those carcasses! Paulie also distracted the ringside security guards so Adrian could embrace Rocky in the ring after his fight with Apollo Creed was over. Some important details on Paulie’s background can be seen in a photo sitting on a mantle at his house during the scene when Rocky comes over 
to ask Adrian out on a date. In the photo, Paulie is wearing the dress uniform and cover of a Chief Petty Officer of the U.S. Navy. It stands to reason that at this point in Paulie’s life, he may have been separated and possibly even retired from the Navy, and he likely owns or is paying the mortgage on the house that he and Adrian are living in. And his abusive attitude in general towards Adrian can be seen during that same scene when he throws out the Thanksgiving turkey that she spent the day making, causing Adrian to cry, run to her room, and close the door…Oh Paulie!!!!
