Charley Burley

Charley Burley

Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA

Record
83-12-2
50 KOs
Win Rate
85.6%
83 victories
KO Rate
60.2%
of victories
Fighter Details
Nationality
USA
Division
middle
Stance
orthodox
Height
175 cm
Reach
191"
Status
inactive
Total Bouts
97
Total Rounds
698
Birth Place
Bessemer, Pennsylvania, USA
Birth Name
Charles Duane Burley
Pro Debut
1936-09-29
Biography

Charley Burley, also known by his nickname "Deacon Burley," was born on September 6, 1917. He was a skilled boxer who competed in the welterweight and middleweight weight classes during his career. Standing at a height of 175cm and with a reach of 191cm, Burley possessed the physical attributes that aided him in the ring. His orthodox stance allowed him to utilize his technical skills to their full potential.

Burley's career spanned several decades, and he faced many formidable opponents throughout that time. His exceptional boxing skills and ability to adapt to different styles made him a challenging opponent for anyone who stepped into the ring with him. Despite his undeniable talent, Burley never received a world title shot, an injustice that many boxing fans and historians still lament today.

One of Burley's most impressive attributes was his punching power. His punches carried incredible force, capable of ending fights in spectacular fashion. His opponents had to be on high alert at all times, never knowing when Burley's devastating punches would find their mark. The burstiness of his punches could turn the tide of a fight in an instant, captivating audiences and leaving his opponents dazed and defeated.

Charley Burley's style inside the ring was a reflection of his determination and skill. His footwork was impeccable, allowing him to move swiftly and dodge incoming attacks with ease. He had a remarkable ability to slip punches and counter with lightning-fast combinations, leaving his opponents struggling to keep up. Burley's defensive skills were equally impressive, as he effortlessly avoided taking unnecessary damage.

Despite his greatness, Burley faced numerous challenges throughout his career due to the racial discrimination that was prevalent in the boxing world at the time. Many white boxers refused to face Burley in the ring, fearing the damage he could inflict upon them. This reluctance to fight him denied Burley the opportunities he deserved and deprived boxing fans of witnessing his true potential against top-tier opponents.

It is perplexing to imagine what Charley Burley could have achieved had he been given the same opportunities as his white counterparts. His skill set, combined with his determination and resilience, ensured that he would have been a force to be reckoned with in any era. Despite the challenges he faced, Burley's legacy as a boxing icon remains intact.

Charley Burley's undeniable talent, combined with his perseverance and resilience, make him an inspiration for boxers to this day. His ability to overcome the limitations placed upon him by the boxing establishment is a testament to his character and determination. Burley's impact on the sport goes far beyond his record; he shattered stereotypes and paved the way for future generations of black boxers, opening doors that were once closed.

In conclusion, Charley "Deacon" Burley was a legendary boxer whose skills and accomplishments deserve recognition. Throughout his career, he showcased his technical expertise, punching power, and defensive prowess, leaving an indelible mark on the sport. Despite being denied a fair shot at a world title due to racial discrimination, Burley's impact on boxing history is undeniable. His story serves as a reminder of the perseverance required to overcome adversity and achieve greatness. Charley Burley will forever be remembered as a trailblazer and a boxing icon.

Fight History (98 Bouts)