Tony Burton, Trainer In Rocky Films, Dies

Actor Tony Burton, who starred in six Rocky films alongside Sylvester Stallone, has died aged 78.

The star passed away in California on Thursday, according to his sister Loretta Kelley, who said he had been in and out of hospital over the last year.

Burton played Tony "Duke" Evers who trained both Rocky Balboa and Apollo Creed.

He was one of just four actors to star in all six of the first Rocky films.

Carl Weathers, who played Creed, was among those who paid tribute to the actor.

He wrote on Twitter: "Sad news. RIP Tony Burton. His intensity and talent helped make the Rocky movies successful. #BePeace."

It is thought Burton's ill health meant he did not get to see the most recent Rocky film, Creed, which has earned Stallone a best supporting actor Oscar nomination.

Burton was born in Flint, Michigan, and fought as a professional boxer in the late 1950s.

His acting career also saw him land roles in The Shining and Stir Crazy.

His IMDb profile says he was due to take on a role in The Truth About the War in Heaven: Declaration of War - but it is not known how far into production the film is.