Top 5 Richest Boxers in History

There is no doubt that boxing is one of the biggest sports in the world. Two of the biggest indications of this are the pay-per-view buys and the boxer’s pay, which made them a living and a fortune.

This is also why online boxing betting has been an in-house habit for combat sports fans who want to defy the boxing odds in every big card on weekends.

But who among these great boxers has secured the biggest money throughout their careers? Here is a list of the top five.

1. Floyd Mayweather Jr. – $560 million

Floyd Mayweather’s legacy as the greatest boxer in history, with his perfect 50-0 professional record, has been a matter of debate for years, but his net worth is undeniable. With over $560 million in career earnings, the former Olympic silver medalist has amassed a fortune.

Thanks to his villain persona and high-profile fights with Oscar De La Hoya, Canelo Alvarez and Manny Pacquiao, his wealth grew enormously throughout his professional run. Add in his lucrative exhibition matches, and then we have the wealthiest boxer of all time.

2. George Foreman – $300 million

Another former Olympian joins Mayweather on the list of the richest boxers in history, as George Foreman has a $300 million net worth. Unlike Mayweather, Foreman, the former heavyweight champion, didn’t solely receive his fortune in fighting.

A considerable chunk of his wealth came from his endorsement and the profits from the ”George Foreman grill,” which became a hit. He agreed to become the face of the product and even allowed the manufacturer to use his name.

3. Oscar De La Hoya – $200 million

As accomplished a boxer as he is, Oscar De La Hoya is currently a successful promoter. The former six-weight division champion’s earnings may be attributed to a split revenue from his fighting career and promotion. He fought the likes of Floyd Mayweather Jr. and Manny Pacquiao during his boxing run.

Today, De La Hoya is still involved in the boxing scene, but this time he is promoting up-and-coming stars like Ryan Garcia, Hector Valdez, Gilberto Ramirez, and 40 other fighters under his Golden Boy Promotions. Overall, the American-Mexican icon has accumulated $200 million in revenue.

4. Manny Pacquiao – $190 million

The only eight-division boxing world champion sits at the number four spot among the richest boxers with $190 million. The fighting pride of the Philippines also has the rags-to-riches story, as he came from humble beginnings. He was barely surviving in General Santos, and boxing saved him.

Pacquiao climbed to the top of the boxing world by becoming a multiple-time champion in eight weight classes. His mega-fights with Oscar De La Hoya, Miguel Cotto, Ricky Hatton, and Floyd Mayweather have allowed him to amass this enormous wealth, which he also uses to help his poor fellow countrymen.

5. Lennox Lewis – $140 million

Former three-time heavyweight champion of the world and lineal champion Lennox Lewis rounds out the list of the richest boxers of all time. His high-profile bouts with Mike Tyson and Evander Holyfield have earned him a huge part of his fortune.

After having a fantastic run inside the boxing ring for 14 years, Lewis had an impressive record of 44 wins against two losses and one draw. Since hanging up the gloves in 2003, he has immersed himself in show business, appearing in various TV shows and movies, which has helped him steadily increase his net worth.