Iran “The Blade” Barkley, a former professional boxer from the Bronx, New York, made his mark in the sport by winning world championships in three weight classes. Known for his toughness and powerful left hook, Barkley faced some of the biggest names in boxing during his career.
Let’s dive into the details of his life, career, and financial status.
Iran Barkley’s Biography
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Iran Barkley |
| Nickname | “The Blade” |
| Born | May 6, 1960 |
| Age | 64 |
| Nationality | American |
| Height | 6’1″ (185 cm) |
| Turned Pro | December 1982 |
| Net Worth | $2 million |
| Religion | Not publicly disclosed |
| Relationship Status | Divorced (twice) |
| Instagram Profile | Not available |
Iran Barkley grew up in the Patterson Houses projects of the South Bronx. He is the great uncle of NFL running back Saquon Barkley and comes from a family with a strong athletic background.
Early Career
Iran Barkley’s journey into boxing began when his older sister Yvonne, a professional boxer herself, introduced him to the sport. Initially reluctant, Barkley found boxing as a way to escape the dangers of street life in the South Bronx.
He joined a street gang called the Black Spades in his youth but eventually focused on boxing. As an amateur, Barkley reached the finals of the New York City Golden Gloves and earned a spot on the United States boxing team.
He also won a bronze medal in the middleweight division at the 1982 World Championships before turning professional.
Professional Career
Barkley turned pro in December 1982, making his debut with a victory over Larry Jordan. His career took off in 1988 when he shocked the boxing world by knocking out Thomas Hearns to win the WBC middleweight title.
This victory was named the 1988 Upset of the Year by The Ring magazine. Barkley went on to win world titles in three weight classes: WBC middleweight (1988-1989), IBF super middleweight (1992-1993), and WBA light heavyweight (1992).
He faced numerous top-tier opponents throughout his career, including Roberto Durán, Michael Nunn, and James Toney. Barkley’s style was characterized by his toughness, powerful left hook, and ability to absorb punishment.
He retired in 1999 with a professional record of 43 wins (27 by knockout), 19 losses, and 1 draw.
Relationship Status
Iran Barkley has been divorced twice. He has four children from his relationships. Barkley’s personal life has been marked by financial struggles and challenges after his boxing career ended.
In 2010, he faced homelessness and had to rely on support from nonprofit organizations to get back on his feet.
Iran Barkley’s Net Worth Details
Iran Barkley’s net worth is estimated to be $2 million as of 2025. This figure represents a significant recovery from his financial troubles in the past.
Barkley’s net worth has been bolstered by his efforts to rebuild his life after boxing, including appearances at boxing events and working with young amateur boxers.
Fight Purses
| Fight | Year | Purse |
|---|---|---|
| vs. Thomas Hearns (1st fight) | 1988 | $250,000 (estimated) |
| vs. Roberto Durán | 1989 | $600,000 (estimated) |
| vs. Thomas Hearns (2nd fight) | 1992 | $1,000,000 (estimated) |
| vs. James Toney | 1993 | $1,000,000 |
Career Records
| Statistic | Record |
|---|---|
| Total Fights | 63 |
| Wins | 43 |
| Wins by KO | 27 |
| Losses | 19 |
| Draws | 1 |
FAQs
1. What were Iran Barkley’s most significant boxing achievements?
Iran Barkley won world championships in three weight classes: WBC middleweight (1988-1989), IBF super middleweight (1992-1993), and WBA light heavyweight (1992). His most notable victory was knocking out Thomas Hearns in 1988 to win the WBC middleweight title.
2. How did Iran Barkley get the nickname “The Blade”?
Iran Barkley got the nickname “The Blade” from his time running with a street gang called the Black Spades in his youth in the South Bronx.
3. What is Iran Barkley’s relationship to NFL player Saquon Barkley?
Iran Barkley is the great uncle of NFL running back Saquon Barkley.
4. Did Iran Barkley ever fight as a heavyweight?
Yes, Iran Barkley did fight as a heavyweight later in his career. He reportedly walked around at 225-226 pounds between fights, making the transition to heavyweight relatively easy for him.
5. What financial challenges did Iran Barkley face after his boxing career?
Despite earning millions during his boxing career, Barkley faced significant financial difficulties after retirement. In 2010, he was reported to be homeless and living on handouts before moving into a halfway house.
6. How many times did Iran Barkley fight Thomas Hearns?
Iran Barkley fought Thomas Hearns twice. He won both fights, first in 1988 to win the WBC middleweight title, and again in 1992 for the WBA light heavyweight title.
7. What was Iran Barkley’s professional boxing record?
Iran Barkley’s professional boxing record was 43 wins (27 by knockout), 19 losses, and 1 draw, for a total of 63 fights.
8. What is Iran Barkley doing now?
Iran Barkley is involved in teaching boxing skills to young amateurs. He has also expressed interest in writing a book about his life and career.
9. Has Iran Barkley been inducted into the International Boxing Hall of Fame?
Iran Barkley has not been inducted into the International Boxing Hall of Fame, although there have been discussions about his potential inclusion due to his achievements in winning world titles in three weight classes.
