Distinguished Member: Darryl Burley

Darryl Burley is one of the most decorated collegiate wrestlers in American history, known for his dominance, discipline, and dedication to the sport. A two-time NCAA Division I national champion and four-time finalist for Lehigh University, Burley compiled an extraordinary career record of 94-5-1.

He won national titles at 134 pounds in 1979 and at 142 pounds in 1983, placing second in both 1980 and 1981. He was a four-time Eastern Intercollegiate  Wrestling  Association  (EIWA) champion, and a six-time finalist and two-time champion at the prestigious Midlands Tournament, where he was named Outstanding Wrestler.

Burley’s success on the international stage included a bronze medal at the prestigious Tbilisi tournament in 1985. He finished second at the 1983 World Championship Trials and third at the 1984 Olympic Trials. He also won the United States National Open in 1985, following a runner-up finish in 1984 cementing his place among America’s elite freestyle wrestlers of the era.

His wrestling journey began at Pemberton High School in New Jersey, where he was a three-time district champion, two-time regional champion, and 1979 state champion. That year, he was also named Outstanding Wrestler of the New Jersey state tournament after defeating the defending champion, Peter Schuyler, in the finals.

Burley graduated from Lehigh with both bachelor’s and master’s degrees in history, later earning his law degree from Hofstra University. He has remained a passionate advocate for others, creating programs to support individuals with developmental and medical disabilities, and serving as a coach and clinician at wrestling clubs and camps across the country. He currently serves as an assistant coach at Cannon School in North Carolina.

For his historic achievements, tireless advocacy, and lifelong commitment to the sport, the National Wrestling Hall of Fame proudly welcomes Darryl Burley as a Distinguished Member.