Young, who passed away last year at 83, had a notable film career and was an undefeated pro boxer.
Burt Young was one of Hollywood’s most recognizable faces. He is perhaps best known for playing Paulie in the 1976 Oscar-winning film Rocky. The character actor also appeared in many other headline films during his career, including Chinatown, Back to School, and Once Upon a Time in America.
However, there is a side to Burt Young that most people don’t know. Young grew up on tough New York streets and joined the Marine Corps at 16 to stay out of trouble. While there, he learned how to box and fought as an amateur, accumulating 32 wins in 34 bouts.
Young as a boxer (photo, Military.com)
He decided to go pro, training with legendary boxing trainer Charley Goldman, who also trained heavyweight champion Rocky Marciano. Another famous name in boxing—Gus D’Amato, who managed boxers Floyd Patterson and Mike Tyson—was in Young’s corner when he fought.
Young fought in 17 professional bouts and never lost. The highlight of his boxing career was an exhibition fight with Muhammad Ali.
After he left boxing and had a brief stint in the carpet-laying business, he became an actor–a good one, too–including being nominated for Best Supporting Acting for his role in Rocky.
I never knew that about Burt Young. He was definitely a great actor. I appreciate you sharing this article, Matthew Paris. Love this article.