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It all began in the South Bronx during the 1970’s. There were accounts of gang problems and drugs. The lure of the streets was stripping children of their innocence. The Borough of the Bronx was politically, economically, and socially impoverished. It could be dangerous for any youngster growing up in such a neighborhood…let alone Iran!
Iran Barkley was the youngest of eight children. Unfortunately, due to his surrounding conditions, Iran joined the notorious Black Spades gang. However, his older sister, Yvonne served as Iran’s protector. She tried to prevent Iran from succumbing to the temptations of the streets. In due time, Yvonne, a lightweight contender in the sport of women’s boxing, would bring Iran to the gym with her. Inevitably, Iran joined the Knights Community Center and began to learn the science of boxing. Under the guidance of Connie Bryant and Bobby Miles, he started to hone his boxing skills. In addition, he met a talented young fighter named Davey Moore. Whereas Barkley had just started his amateur career, Moore had already won numerous accolades and was gunning for a shot on the 1980 US Olympic Team. Iran and Davey became fast friends. [details]
Iran Barkley was the youngest of eight children. Unfortunately, due to his surrounding conditions, Iran joined the notorious Black Spades gang. However, his older sister, Yvonne served as Iran’s protector. She tried to prevent Iran from succumbing to the temptations of the streets. In due time, Yvonne, a lightweight contender in the sport of women’s boxing, would bring Iran to the gym with her. Inevitably, Iran joined the Knights Community Center and began to learn the science of boxing. Under the guidance of Connie Bryant and Bobby Miles, he started to hone his boxing skills. In addition, he met a talented young fighter named Davey Moore. Whereas Barkley had just started his amateur career, Moore had already won numerous accolades and was gunning for a shot on the 1980 US Olympic Team. Iran and Davey became fast friends. [details]