Production has officially started on Creed II, the sequel to the Rocky film, Creed, starring Michael B. Jordan and directed by Ryan Coogler.

Coogler isn’t directing this time go-round, as Steven Caple Jr. will be sit in the director’s chair. It was also earlier announced that Tessa Thompson and Sylvester Stallone would reprise their roles.

Now, with the production announcement comes the news that Ryan Coogler will still be returning for the film in a capacity, this time as executive producer.

Aside from Jordan, Thompson and Stallone, other returning cast members are Phylicia Rashad as Mary Anne, Wood Harris as Tony ‘Little Duke’ Burton, and Andre Ward as Danny ‘Stuntman’ Wheeler.

New cast members are Florian “The Big Nasty” Munteanu as Viktor Drago, Dolph Lundgren returning to the role of Ivan Drago, and Russell Hornsby as Buddy Marcelle.

The film will be released November 21, 2018.

“When I wrote and directed Creed, I wanted to tell a human story about a family from a new perspective, while also paying homage to the Rocky characters we’ve all grown up knowing and loving. I’ve known Steven was an amazing filmmaker since our days at USC film school together, so I can’t wait to see what he, Sly, Mike and Tessa bring to this next chapter,” said Coogler.

“It’s an honor to be a part of the franchise and work with such a thoughtful team. I got involved because I’ve always been a Rocky fan and I enjoy stories with heart and substance. But when Ryan put his touch on Creed I felt another level of connection to the franchise. It started to feel personal for many different reasons. This next Creed is a tale beyond the boxing ring and dives deeps into family, legacy, and fears. I’m excited to share my view and collaborate with the talented cast and crew,” said Caple Jr.

Caple Jr. has assembled a creative team including director of photography Kramer Morgenthau, production designer Franco Carbone, costume designers Lizz Wolf (A Single Man, Dreamgirls); art director Jesse Rosenthal  fight coordinator Daniel Hernandez; technical boxing advisor Robert Sale ; special effects coordinator Patrick White and VFX producer Crystal Dowd.

Filming will take place primarily in Philadelphia with additional locations in New Mexico.