Who is the wealthiest boxer of all time?

By Arslan Saleem December 23, 2023 02:53

Photo by AFP

Boxing has always been a sport associated with fame and fortune. Over the years, many boxers have achieved great success both inside and outside the ring. While the sport has witnessed numerous talented athletes, there is one question that often arises among fans and enthusiasts: Who is the wealthiest boxer of all time? In this article, we will explore the lives and careers of some of the richest boxers in history, taking into account their earnings, endorsements, and business ventures.

Floyd Mayweather Jr.

Floyd Mayweather Jr., often referred to as "Money," is considered one of the greatest boxers of all time and also the wealthiest. Throughout his career, Mayweather won multiple world titles in five weight classes and retired with an undefeated record of 50-0. His extravagant lifestyle and flamboyant personality have only added to his reputation as the highest-earning boxer.

Mayweather's earnings from his fights alone are staggering. His highly anticipated bout with Manny Pacquiao in 2015 generated an estimated $600 million, with Mayweather taking home a reported $240 million. In 2017, he faced Conor McGregor in a cross-sport bout that earned him a whopping $275 million. These massive paydays, combined with his smart investments and business ventures, have propelled Mayweather to the top of the wealth rankings.

George Foreman

George Foreman, a former heavyweight champion, is not only known for his boxing prowess but also his successful business ventures. Foreman gained international fame when he won the gold medal at the 1968 Olympics and later became the heavyweight champion by defeating Joe Frazier in 1973. However, his financial success came after retiring from boxing.

Foreman's most notable business venture was the George Foreman Lean Mean Fat-Reducing Grilling Machine, a popular kitchen appliance. He signed a deal with Salton, Inc. in 1994, granting them the exclusive right to use his name and likeness for the product. The endorsement proved to be highly lucrative, earning Foreman an estimated $200 million in total. His success as a businessman has secured his position as one of the wealthiest boxers of all time.

Oscar De La Hoya

Oscar De La Hoya, a former professional boxer, is not only known for his boxing achievements but also his successful business ventures. De La Hoya won multiple world titles in six different weight classes and became one of the most beloved and marketable fighters of his era. His good looks, charisma, and talent made him a fan favorite.

De La Hoya's financial success came from various sources. In addition to his boxing career earnings, he founded Golden Boy Promotions, a successful boxing promotion company. Under his leadership, Golden Boy Promotions has organized numerous high-profile fights and signed lucrative television deals. De La Hoya's shrewd business acumen has enabled him to amass a significant fortune and secure his position as one of the wealthiest boxers in history.

Manny Pacquiao

Manny Pacquiao, a Filipino professional boxer, is not only known for his boxing skills but also his extensive philanthropic efforts. Pacquiao has won world titles in eight different weight divisions and is regarded as one of the greatest fighters of his generation. He has also been involved in politics, serving as a senator in the Philippines.

Pacquiao's earnings from his boxing career have been substantial, with his fights against Floyd Mayweather Jr. and Oscar De La Hoya being particularly lucrative. However, his wealth is not solely derived from boxing. Pacquiao has ventured into various business ventures, including real estate, endorsements, and a professional basketball team in the Philippines. His diversified income streams have contributed to his overall wealth, making him one of the richest boxers of all time.

While boxing is often associated with physical prowess and athletic achievements, the sport has also created opportunities for boxers to amass significant wealth. From Floyd Mayweather Jr.'s extravagant lifestyle to George Foreman's successful business ventures, these boxers have achieved financial success both inside and outside the ring. Their earnings from fights, endorsements, and smart investments have secured their positions as some of the wealthiest boxers in history. As the sport continues to evolve, it will be interesting to see who will join the ranks of the wealthiest boxers in the future.