While the question is tricky to answer definitively, here's how we can piece it together:
* They met through boxing. The films portray Rocky and Mickey as both deeply entrenched in the boxing world, with Mickey being a seasoned trainer and Rocky a struggling underdog fighter. Their paths likely crossed through the Philly boxing scene.
* Mickey saw something in Rocky. While Rocky was a "bum" in the eyes of many, Mickey saw his potential, his "heart" and raw talent, despite Rocky's lack of technical skills.
* Rocky's persistence. The films suggest that Rocky was insistent in seeking out Mickey's mentorship, perhaps even desperate for guidance in his career.
It's important to remember that the "Rocky" films are fictional narratives. We don't have concrete information about how the real-life inspirations for Rocky and Mickey met.
However, we can assume that the essence of their relationship - a gruff yet caring mentor helping a determined underdog - is rooted in the realities of the boxing world and the spirit of perseverance.