[Congressional Record Volume 154, Number 27 (Tuesday, February 19, 2008)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E212]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                 TRIBUTE TO IRAN ``THE BLADE'' BARKLEY

                                 ______
                                 

                          HON. JOSE E. SERRANO

                              of new york

                    in the house of representatives

                       Tuesday, February 19, 2008

  Mr. SERRANO. Madam Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to Mr. Iran 
Barkley, a towering local hero who defied the odds to reach the 
pinnacle of professional boxing excellence. Throughout his career, in 
times of triumph and heartbreak, Iran Barkley showed resilience and 
indomitable courage in pursuit of greatness. His gritty determination 
and willingness to stand toe-to-toe in the ring endeared him to fans 
worldwide, and often disproved critics who believed they were the last 
word on the outer limits of a fighter's ability.
  Born in the South Bronx on May 9, 1960, Mr. Barkley, also known as 
``The Blade,'' was the youngest of eight siblings. Mr. Barkley's older 
sister, Yvonne, was an amateur boxer and lightweight contender in New 
York; she brought young Iran with her to local gyms as a way to keep 
him off the street. In the years that followed, under the tutelage of 
Connie Bryant, Bobby Miles, and with the friendship of another talented 
young fighter named Davey Moore, young Iran quickly demonstrated 
considerable in-ring ability. In 1981, Iran won the Empire State Games 
and was a finalist in the New York State Golden Gloves Competition. By 
1982, he had joined the U.S. Amateur Boxing Team and traveled 
throughout Europe, medaling at the Copenhagen Boxing Club and the World 
Games in Munich, Germany. Shortly thereafter, Iran ``The Blade'' 
Barkley turned pro.
  Mr. Barkley began his professional boxing career with an impressive 
10-3 record. Through management changes and a controversial loss in his 
first World Title shot, Mr. Barkley later shocked the boxing world by 
defeating Tommy ``Hitman'' Hearns in a third round knockout to become 
Middle Weight Champion of the World. Mr. Barkley held this title until 
losing a controversial decision bout to Roberto Duran in what Ring 
magazine called ``The Fight of the Year.'' Later, in part due to a 
string of injuries and managerial setbacks, Mr. Barkley's career would 
ebb and flow, with stunning victories sometimes paired with 
heartbreaking defeats. All told, however, this Bronx born boxing phenom 
would go on to be a five time World Champion, winning titles in three 
weight classes, and holding the distinction of being the only man ever 
to beat Tommy Hearns twice. In heavily contested and physical bouts, 
``The Blade's'' mettle earned him the respect of his opponents.
  His relentless and efficient punching power thrilled boxing 
enthusiasts around the globe, and his ring accomplishments have left 
little doubt in the minds of boxing historians as to his abilities and 
class.
  Madam Speaker, each February we honor the contributions of our 
African American brothers and sisters. We know that one month is hardly 
enough time to reflect upon the incalculable enrichments that African 
Americans have made to our nation. However, we also know that each time 
we pay special tribute to the legacies of African Americans, we move 
one step closer to fulfilling the promise of a free and equal society. 
The Bronx has always had, in my view, an embarrassment of riches in its 
African American community--so many heroes, so many fighters, so many 
champions of the people. But Iran ``The Blade'' Barkley is truly a 
legendary figure. His punching power has been matched only by his 
staying power in the world of professional sport. Unquestionably, he is 
an example, for all of us, of what can be accomplished through 
persistence, will and heart. I ask that my colleagues join me in 
recognizing a giant in the world of professional boxing, and more, Iran 
``The Blade'' Barkley.

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