Tony Burton was born on March 23, 1937, in Flint, Michigan. He attended Flint Northern High School, where he discovered his passion for boxing. Burton began his boxing career in the late 1950s and quickly gained recognition for his skills in the ring. In 1957, he won the State Golden Gloves Light Heavyweight Championship, solidifying his reputation as a talented boxer.
Despite his success in the sport, Burton's boxing career was not without its challenges. In 1959, he made the decision to retire from professional boxing and pursue other opportunities.
After retiring from boxing, Tony Burton found a new passion in acting. He made his film debut in the 1974 movie "The Black Godfather" and went on to appear in several other films, including "Assault on Precinct 13" and "The Toy."
However, it was his role as Tony 'Duke' Evans in the Rocky film series that truly solidified Burton's place in Hollywood. He appeared alongside Sylvester Stallone in the iconic films, playing the role of Rocky Balboa's trainer and mentor. Burton's portrayal of Duke garnered him critical acclaim and a loyal fan following.
Outside of his acting career, Tony Burton was also a family man. He married Rae Burton, with whom he shared many years of happiness and companionship. Burton's family life was important to him, and he often spoke fondly of his wife and the support she provided him throughout his career.
Throughout his life, Tony Burton's passion for boxing and acting never wavered. He was a true talent in both fields and left a lasting impact on all who had the pleasure of watching him on screen. Tony Burton will always be remembered as a beloved actor and athlete who defied the odds and achieved greatness in both the boxing ring and the world of entertainment.