Among the real-life boxing figures in the movie are Jimmy Gambina — a trainer and the film’s technical advisor — who plays Mickey’s No. 2, Mike. Rocky’s cut man, Al Salvani, was a boxing trainer named Al Silvani. And of course, Joe Frazier appears in the ring before the final fight. Avildsen tried to get as many real-life champs as he could, but Smokin’ Joe was the only one to show. 
