'Rocky' Star Tony Burton -- Apollo Creed's Trainer Dead at 78 'Rocky' Star Tony Burton Apollo Creed Trainer Dead Breaking News 2/26/2016 3:39 AM PT

Tony Burton, one of only a handful of actors to appear in the 1st 6 installments of the 'Rocky' franchise, has died.

Burton played Duke, Apollo Creed's trainer, and also trained Rocky in the 4th movie. Prior to acting Burton was himself a professional light heavyweight boxer and football player.

Burton was apparently ill and unable to see 'Creed.'

The actor also starred in "The Shining" and "Stir Crazy."

'Rocky' co-star Carl Weathers confirmed the death in a tweet, "RIP Tony Burton. intensity and talent helped make the Rocky movie successful #BePeace."

Burton was 78.

R.I.P.