Before the filming of the film, Washington did not consult any information about the character he played. He relied on intuition.
The scenes depicting Carter's three important matches were filmed in three days. Jewison had never filmed a duel on a boxing ring. In order to be fully prepared, he watched many boxing movies such as "Angry Bull".
Director Norman’s old acquaintance, Rod Steiger, played the role of the Federal Justice in the final court scene.
As early as the 1980s, a producer approached Jewison, hoping that he would direct a film adapted from "Round Sixteen", but then the producer could not guarantee the production funding, and the shooting plan could not be stopped.
The boxing moves in the film were designed by stunt coordinator Ron Stein and boxing coach Terry Cleburne. There were more than 90 punches between Carter and Griffiths, and they must be within 1 point. Completed in 40 seconds. After a year of training and rehearsal, Washington and Cliburn were completely able to retract and rewind.
Washington played Carter's attitude very resolutely. He wanted to lose weight, become a boxer, and build Carter's body. Before the filming started, Washington hired boxing coach Terry Cliburn as his personal trainer. With special dietary arrangements and arduous physical training, Washington gradually became Carter. The cooperation between Washington and Cliburn was very pleasant, and even later Washington recommended Clay to play the boxer Emile Griffiths in the film.
Finding an actor to play Lesla Martin made Jervison painstakingly. He interviewed many young actors in New York, Chicago, Toronto and Los Angeles.
The film premiered at the Toronto Film Festival in 1999. At that time, the post-production was not completed, there were no cast and crew subtitles in the film, and the colors needed to be adjusted.
