If he dies, he dies. Following the death of Apollo Creed.

I must break you. Said to Rocky, as their match is about to begin.

He's not human. He's like a piece of iron. To his trainer, during the match with Rocky.

Rocky: Champ, look this fight's over. I gotta stop it. Apollo: No, no. Rocky: Look, you can't do no more out there! Apollo: I'm here to fight. Rocky: He's killing ya. I gotta stop this thing. Apollo: I'm here to fight, promise me you're not gonna stop this fight.
Rocky: I see three of him out there. Paulie: Hit the one in the middle! Duke: Right! Hit the one in the middle!