What is the name of the character played by Tony Burton in the Rocky series?

Tony Burton played Tony “Duke” Evers in the Rocky series. Duke is a trainer and cornerman who is closely associated with heavyweight champion Apollo Creed and later helps Rocky Balboa prepare for major fights.

Duke first appears as part of Apollo’s boxing team in Rocky. After Apollo’s death in Rocky IV, he becomes one of the people who helps Rocky train for his bout with Ivan Drago. His experience, confidence, and knowledge of Apollo’s methods make him an important link between Rocky’s career and Apollo’s legacy.

The character is easy to confuse with other members of Rocky’s corner. Mickey Goldmill is Rocky’s original trainer, Paulie Pennino is Rocky’s brother-in-law and friend, and Apollo Creed is the champion Rocky fights in the first film. Duke is a separate character, and his nickname is not connected to George Washington Duke, the promoter introduced in Rocky V.

Burton, born Anthony Mabron Burton, was both an actor and a professional boxer. He played Duke across the original Rocky films and returned for Rocky Balboa in 2006.