Sylvester Stallone steps down from directing 'Creed 2'

Sylvester Stallone will not be directing and producing "Creed 2." (Reuters)

Sylvester Stallone is handing over the directorial duties for “Creed 2.”

The 71-year-old actor announced on Monday he will not be directing the upcoming installment of the "Rocky" franchise and tapped Stephen Caple, Jr. as the new director.

"The character of Adonis Creed reflects this generation, and I believe it is important to have a director who is part of it, that is why I think we are lucky to have Stephen Caple, Jr. a wonderful new talent, take over the directorial chores and make the story as relatable as possible… He and Michael B. Jordan will deliver a knockout!" Stallone wrote on Instagram.

Stallone announced in October he would be directing and producing “Creed 2” and was excited to work with Michael B. Jordan again. However, after talks with Jordan, MGM and Warner Bros. execs, the “Rocky” actor decided to step aside and find a new director, according to Variety.

“Creed” centers around Jordan’s character, Adonis Johnson, the son of boxing champion Apollo Creed, and his journey as a boxer. The movie earned Stallone an Oscar nomination for best supporting actor in 2016.

The sequel will follow the events of the first movie. Production for “Creed 2” is expected to begin in March, with a release date set for November 2018.