Top athletes in most sports earn substantial incomes, but boxing is exceptional with its astonishing prize money. Top fighters can pocket millions from a single bout, thanks to boxing’s international popularity and huge global viewership for championship fights.
Join us for an exclusive look at the wealthiest boxers in the sport and where they rank. From legends of the ring to current champions, these fighters have amassed incredible fortunes. Can you guess who the richest boxer is? Explore our ranking to see if your guess matches up with the actual figures.
Shannon Briggs – $10 Million
Shannon Briggs is an American boxer who has faced some of the best in the sport throughout his extensive career. In 1997, he fought George Foreman for a championship belt, winning by decision. In addition to his boxing career, Briggs has appeared in several Hollywood movies, which have undoubtedly contributed to his net worth of $10 million.
It’s reported that Briggs began boxing at the age of 17, which is considered quite late to start in the sport. Despite this late start, it has certainly paid off, as Briggs has gone on to become one of the wealthiest fighters in the world.
Sergio Martinez – $10 Million
Sergio Martinez, hailing from Argentina, had an unconventional start compared to many other boxers on this list. Initially, he showcased his athletic talent in soccer and cycling before channeling his skills into boxing. Recognized by multiple sports outlets, including Sports Illustrated, Martinez was once ranked among the best boxers in the world.
His boxing career spanned from the late 1990s to the early 2000s, but he made significant comebacks in the late 2000s. During this period, he captured a WBC title in the super welterweight division and secured several middleweight titles in subsequent years, cementing his place in boxing history.
Regilio Tuur – $10 Million
Regilio Tuur is one of the most renowned boxers from the Netherlands, boasting an impressive record with 51 fights and only 4 losses. Known for his powerful punches, Tuur achieved 30 knockouts in his career. His strength was notably evident during the 1988 Olympics in Seoul, South Korea, where he knocked out the reigning world champion, all before turning professional.
After transitioning from amateur to professional boxing, Tuur quickly captured the WBO super featherweight title, solidifying his status as a top fighter. His achievements have made him a celebrated figure in Dutch boxing history.
Laila Ali – $10 Million
Laila Ali is one of the few female boxers on this list, and her name might ring a bell even if you’re not a boxing fan. She is the daughter of Muhammad Ali, arguably the greatest boxer of all time. Laila carved out her own legacy in the ring, becoming one of the best female boxers ever.
By the time she retired, she had captured every title available and remained undefeated. After boxing, she enjoyed a successful television career. Today, Laila Ali dedicates much of her time to supporting charities and NGOs, continuing to make a positive impact outside the ring.
Julio César Chávez – $10 Million
Mexico has produced many great fighters, but Julio César Chávez is often regarded as the best of all time. ESPN ranks him among the top 50 fighters ever. Throughout his career, Chávez captured championship belts in three different weight divisions, showcasing his versatility and dominance.
Though many consider his prime to be in the early 1990s, he fought for over 20 years. One of his most remarkable achievements is an unbeaten streak of 90 matches, the second-longest in boxing history. His enduring success and incredible record have solidified Chávez’s legacy as one of boxing’s all-time greats.
Joshua Clottey – $10 Million
Joshua Clottey, a fighter from Ghana, ascended the ranks to face some of the sport’s biggest names, including Manny Pacquiao. He won 41 bouts and lost 5, never once being knocked out. Clottey first gained fame at the Commonwealth Games in 1994, but it took over a decade for him to capture a championship belt.
Known for his strong chin and solid fundamentals, he earned a reputation as an exceptionally tough fighter. Throughout his lengthy professional career, Clottey competed in three different weight classes, showcasing his adaptability and resilience in the boxing world.
Joe Calzaghe – $10 Million
Joe Calzaghe, hailing from Wales in the U.K., boasts one of the most impressive records in boxing history, retiring undefeated. He holds the record for the longest reign as super middleweight champion, having dominated the division for 10 years without ever being defeated. By the time he retired, Calzaghe had amassed 46 wins.
In the final years of his career, despite his age, he demonstrated his continued excellence by defeating top contenders in his division. His legacy is defined by his remarkable unbeaten record and his dominance in the super middleweight class.
Frank Bruno – $10 Million
Frank Bruno is renowned as one of the toughest fighters in boxing history, demonstrated by his bouts against legends like Mike Tyson and Lennox Lewis. Although he lost both of his fights with Tyson, Bruno’s career was still impressive, culminating in a world championship title after four attempts.
He boasted an extraordinary knockout rate, with 95% of his victories coming by knockout, amounting to 38 knockouts in 40 fights. Remarkably, Tyson was one of the few opponents he couldn’t knock out, but he later praised Bruno’s punching power. Bruno’s resilience and knockout prowess have solidified his legacy in the sport.
Andy Ruiz Jr. – $10 Million
Andy Ruiz Jr., a prominent boxer from Mexico, made history by becoming the first Mexican fighter to win a heavyweight title when he defeated Anthony Joshua in 2019. Unfortunately, a shoulder injury has since sidelined him. Ruiz had a rematch with Joshua later that year, which Joshua won.
Despite the setback, Ruiz earned substantial purses from both fights, with Saudi Arabia reportedly paying around $40 million just for the rights to host them. Currently estimated to be worth about $10 million, Ruiz’s net worth could increase as he has shown interest in future championship bouts once he recovers from his injury.
David Diaz – $15 Million
David Diaz, an American boxer, made a name for himself by going unbeaten in his first 26 bouts before being defeated by Kendall Holt. His career, which spanned from the late 1990s into the 2000s, included winning the WBO lightweight title.
Diaz also represented the U.S. in the 1996 Olympics in Atlanta, Georgia. By the time he retired, he had achieved 36 wins, 4 losses, and 1 draw. Since retiring, Diaz has focused on supporting children in Chicago, serving as a mentor and earning multiple honors from the city for his contributions.
James Buster Douglas – $15 Million
Buster Douglas’s 1990 victory over Mike Tyson remains one of boxing’s most iconic upsets. At that time, Tyson was widely regarded as unbeatable, making Douglas’s win a stunning shock to the world. Following this triumph, Douglas faced another legend, Evander Holyfield, but Holyfield proved too formidable and claimed victory.
Despite the loss, the payout from the Tyson fight was substantial enough for Douglas to retire comfortably. Tyson was a 42-to-1 favorite going into their match. Today, Douglas dedicates much of his time to mentoring youth and has made appearances on several television shows.
Antonio Margarito – $15 Million
Antonio Margarito, an American boxer with a notable career, also faced some controversy. He was caught using gypsum to create a cast-like material in his hand wraps, which was intended to enhance the impact of his punches. This led to a one-year suspension.
Despite this setback, Margarito enjoyed a successful career, earning around $15 million and challenging some of boxing’s biggest names. Known for his remarkable durability and strong chin, Margarito captured several welterweight titles. One of his titles was eventually lost to the legendary Manny Pacquiao in 2010, marking a significant moment in his career.
Larry Holmes – $18 Million
Larry Holmes is widely regarded as one of the greatest heavyweight boxers in history. His 1980 victory over Muhammad Ali, considered one of boxing’s greatest moments, marked a significant achievement in his career. Holmes, who is now worth around $18 million, accumulated much of his wealth through successful business ventures following his boxing career.
He was a world champion from 1978 to 1985, capturing multiple belts during this time. After retiring, Holmes returned to the ring for a $2.2 million bout against Mike Tyson. Despite his efforts, Tyson won the fight after several knockdowns.
Nigel Benn – $20 Million
Nigel Benn, from the U.K., enjoyed a successful professional boxing career spanning just over a decade, achieving world champion status in two different weight classes during the late 1980s and early 1990s. Following his retirement, Benn dedicated nearly 20 years to charitable work, including counseling individuals dealing with addiction and marital issues.
He also occasionally trains boxers in his new home country of Australia. Benn remains one of the best British boxers of all time, retiring with a record of 45 wins, 5 losses, and 1 draw, the latter being a loss to Steve Collins.
Juan Manuel Marquez – $20 Million
Juan Manuel Marquez, hailing from Mexico, had a remarkable boxing career that spanned nearly two decades. Over this period, he claimed world champion titles in four different weight classes. Starting his boxing journey at a young age, Marquez eventually fought some of the sport’s elite, including a high-profile bout with Manny Pacquiao that earned him $5 million.
Marquez and Pacquiao fought a total of four times, creating one of boxing’s most notable rivalries. Pacquiao won two of their encounters by decision and one ended in a draw, while Marquez secured victory in their fourth and final fight.
Freddie Roach – $20 Million
Freddie Roach, a former boxer, was poised for a legendary career before health issues led to his early retirement. He competed from the late 1970s to the early 1980s, amassing a record of 41 wins and 13 losses, earning a reputation as a formidable brawler.
However, his impact on the sport didn’t end with his retirement. Roach transitioned to become a celebrated trainer, working with boxing legends such as Mike Tyson, Manny Pacquiao, Miguel Cotto, and Oscar de La Hoya, among others. He has trained around 50 champions and has also worked with athletes from other sports and actors preparing for roles.
David Haye – $20 Million
David Haye, a British boxer, had a career that spanned from 2002 to 2018, during which he captured world champion titles in both the heavyweight and cruiserweight divisions. His career concluded with an early stoppage in a 2018 match, marking his retirement. Despite this, Haye is celebrated as one of the greatest British fighters of all time, retiring with an impressive record of 28 wins and just four losses.
He is particularly noted for unifying the heavyweight and cruiserweight titles, a rare achievement accomplished by only a few boxers. Haye also successfully defended his titles three times, solidifying his legacy in the sport.
Carl Froch – $20 Million
Carl Froch is a celebrated British boxing legend known for his impressive career. With a record of 33 wins and just 2 losses, Froch held four different championship belts throughout his time in the ring. He retired after back-to-back victories in defense of his titles.
Now a respected boxing analyst, Froch is also a member of the Boxing Hall of Fame. Both of his losses were by decision, and he was only knocked down twice in his career—on each occasion, he came back to win the fight. His resilience and technical skill have cemented his reputation as one of the sport’s toughest fighters.
Sonny Bill Williams – $25 Million
Sonny Bill Williams, from New Zealand, boasts a net worth of approximately $25 million, thanks to his achievements in both rugby and boxing. He initially gained fame as a rugby player before transitioning to boxing. Unlike many on this list, Williams fought only six matches in his boxing career but won all except one.
Despite retiring relatively early, he has recently expressed a desire to return to the ring and avenge his only loss. His success in both sports has solidified his status as a prominent athlete and contributed significantly to his substantial wealth.
Miguel Cotto – $25 Million
Miguel Cotto, hailing from a storied lineage of Puerto Rican fighters, achieved a remarkable feat by securing world titles in four different weight classes. His boxing career, which lasted from 2001 to 2017, saw him battle some of the sport’s top talents, including Floyd Mayweather Jr. and Manny Pacquiao.
Cotto’s record stands at 41 wins and 6 losses, with around 33 of those victories coming by knockout, highlighting his powerful punch. Despite a few losses, he earned millions from his fights, cementing his legacy as one of the most accomplished boxers from Puerto Rico.
Gennady Golovkin – $30 Million
Gennady Golovkin, a legendary middleweight boxer, boasts an impressive record with nearly 400 fights and no knockdowns. He holds a record of 42 wins and only 2 losses, both of which were by decision. Golovkin is ranked among the wealthiest boxers due to his successful business ventures and lucrative brand deals.
Although he vacated his belts in 2023, he continues to fight professionally. At one point, many considered him the best pound-for-pound fighter in the world, reflecting his exceptional skill and enduring legacy in the sport.
Felix Trinidad – $30 Million
Felix Trinidad, a powerful Puerto Rican boxer, enjoyed a career spanning nearly two decades, beginning in 1990. Known for his heavy hands, Trinidad held multiple championship titles and secured victories over several notable boxers. By the time he retired, he had amassed 42 wins and only 2 losses.
One of his most celebrated victories was against Oscar De La Hoya in 1999. Trinidad has since been inducted into the Hall of Fame. He started boxing at just eight years old and now leads a quieter life with his family, enjoying his well-earned retirement.
Deontay Wilder – $30 Million
Deontay Wilder is one of the most prominent boxers in the sport today, known for his knockout power and high-profile bouts. His matches with Tyson Fury earned him substantial paydays, including a draw in their first fight and losses in the subsequent bouts.
Wilder also earned around $20 million for a rematch with Luis Ortiz. He captured the heavyweight title in 2015 and has expressed intentions to continue boxing. However, recent unexpected losses have raised questions about the future of his career and how much longer he will remain active in the sport.
Anthony Mundine – $30 Million
Anthony Mundine, originally a rugby player, has seen his boxing career overshadow his athletic beginnings. With nearly 20 years in the ring, Mundine won the super middleweight title twice and built a net worth of around $30 million. His financial success has been bolstered by appearances on various television shows.
Mundine’s father, a skilled boxer himself, played a key role in training him from a young age. Mundine, who recently retired in 2021, is remembered for his significant contributions to the sport and his impressive career accomplishments.
Andre Berto – $30 Million
Andre Berto, a former welterweight champion, retired with a record of 32 wins and 6 losses. Beyond his boxing career, Berto has successfully transitioned into real estate, investing in some of the most luxurious homes.
Born in the U.S. with dual citizenship from Haiti, where his parents are from, Berto faced major names like Floyd Mayweather Jr. during his career. His father, a pioneer in the UFC, retired from fighting and inspired his children to pursue martial arts. Berto’s diverse achievements highlight his success both in and out of the ring.
Naseem Hamed – $33 Million
Naseem Hamed, with a net worth of $33 million, boasts a legendary career that elevated him to cultural icon status in the U.K. during the 1990s. Known for his charismatic presence, Hamed captured multiple titles and frequently appeared in commercials and late-night TV shows both in the U.K. and the U.S., with his popularity sometimes compared to Michael Jordan’s.
He retired with an impressive record of 36 wins and 1 loss, with 31 of those victories coming by knockout, reflecting one of the sport’s highest knockout percentages. Today, Hamed enjoys retirement in the U.K.
Ricky Hatton – $40 Million
Ricky Hatton is a prominent British boxer whose career has left a significant mark on the sport. With a net worth of approximately $40 million, much of his wealth was earned during a career in which he achieved 45 wins and just 3 losses.
Hatton won a welterweight title but primarily competed in the light welterweight division, where he captured multiple championships. Today, he focuses on boxing promotion. Hatton’s notable defeats came against legends Floyd Mayweather Jr. and Manny Pacquiao, the latter of which led to his retirement, though he briefly attempted a comeback.
Bernard Hopkins – $40 Million
Bernard Hopkins is renowned for one of the longest and most successful careers in boxing history. He held titles in two weight divisions—middleweight and light heavyweight. Notably, his light heavyweight victory made him the oldest boxer to ever win a world title. Hopkins didn’t retire until the age of 52, an extraordinary achievement in the sport.
His career, which spanned from 1988 to 2016, featured multiple championship runs across various divisions. Today, Hopkins focuses on promoting other boxers, continuing to influence the sport long after his retirement. His four-decade career remains a testament to his longevity and skill in boxing.
Amir Khan – $40 Million
Amir Khan, whose boxing career spanned from 2005 to 2022, is recognized as one of the highest-paid boxers in the world. Hailing from the U.K., Khan captured titles in both the light welterweight and lightweight divisions across multiple leagues. In addition to his boxing success, he appeared on various television shows, further boosting his fame.
At the time of his retirement, Khan had a record of 34 wins and 6 losses. His final fight ended in defeat, and shortly after, it was revealed that he had failed a drug test leading up to the bout, prompting an investigation.
Tyson Fury – $65 Million
Tyson Fury, hailing from the U.K. with Irish heritage, has risen to prominence in recent years, known for both his dynamic boxing style and lavish lifestyle. With a net worth of $65 million, Fury enjoys the financial freedom to indulge in his extravagant tastes. His impressive boxing record stands at 34 wins, 1 draw against Deontay Wilder, and no losses.
Fury has held multiple heavyweight titles and successfully defended them, although he briefly relinquished them during breaks from the sport in 2016 and 2018. He has recently expressed a desire to continue fighting and aims to take on some of the world’s best before retiring.
Vitali Klitschko – $80 Million
Vitali Klitschko is a name recognized well beyond boxing circles, partly due to his significant role in Ukrainian politics. Currently serving as the mayor of Kyiv, Klitschko achieved notable success in the ring before transitioning to his political career. His boxing record boasts 64 wins and only 5 losses.
Klitschko began his professional career in 1996 and retired in 2013, during which he captured multiple championship belts and established himself as one of the world’s top fighters. His dual achievements in both boxing and politics have solidified his legacy on a global scale.
Anthony Joshua – $80 Million
Anthony Joshua, a prominent British boxer, has earned global recognition for his impressive achievements in the heavyweight division. Starting his professional career in the late 2000s, Joshua has captured multiple world heavyweight belts and remains ranked among the top five heavyweight fighters by most media outlets.
With a net worth of $80 million, he is also considered one of the most marketable athletes in the world. Joshua’s record stands at 30 wins and 3 losses. As of now, he has a highly anticipated fight on the horizon and has teased potential future matchups with Tyson Fury.
Wladimir Klitschko – $90 Million
Wladimir Klitschko is a celebrated Ukrainian boxer renowned for his remarkable achievements and extensive accolades. Holding multiple world heavyweight titles and unifying championships across various leagues, Klitschko’s career was highlighted by a historic 22-fight winning streak, which was ended by Tyson Fury in 2015. By then, Klitschko had already cemented his legacy as one of boxing’s greats.
With an estimated net worth of around $90 million, he is also recognized as the longest-reigning heavyweight champion in history. His brother, Vitali Klitschko, also made a significant impact in boxing, with both brothers competing during overlapping periods.
Sugar Ray Leonard – $120 Million
Sugar Ray Leonard is a name that resonates even beyond boxing enthusiasts. Known for his charismatic personality and formidable punching power, Leonard became a media sensation during his career, using his charm to boost his prize money.
He was the first boxer to surpass $100 million in earnings and held multiple titles across various leagues and weight classes. Leonard retired with an impressive record of 36 wins and just 3 losses, with his final two defeats occurring as age began to impact his performance in the ring. His legacy as one of boxing’s greatest is firmly established.
Lennox Lewis – $140 Million
Lennox Lewis, a dominant force in boxing from 1989 to 2003, fought some of the best fighters of his era. By the time of his retirement, Lewis had achieved 41 wins and only 2 losses. His notable victories include wins over Mike Tyson and Evander Holyfield, the latter of which he defeated twice by decision.
In his final year in the sport, Lewis also secured a victory against Vitali Klitschko. His last bout, dubbed the “Clash of the Titans,” marked the end of his illustrious career, as Lewis had already announced his retirement, making a rematch with Klitschko impossible.
Saul Alvarez – $180 Million
When discussing boxing achievements and titles, Saul “Canelo” Alvarez is a name that stands out. He became the first boxer to win the title of undisputed super middleweight champion, holding belts across four different weight classes. With a net worth of $180 million, Alvarez is among the richest boxers in history.
His impressive record includes 60 wins and just 2 losses, with defeats coming from Floyd Mayweather Jr. and Dmitry Bivol in 2022. Despite the recent loss, Alvarez has stated that he has no plans to retire soon and aims to continue his illustrious career.
Oscar De La Hoya – $200 Million
Oscar De La Hoya is a name synonymous with boxing greatness. With championship titles in six different weight classes, he established himself as one of the sport’s most successful fighters. De La Hoya retired in 2008 with a record of 39 wins and 6 losses, having squared off against some of boxing’s finest, including Floyd Mayweather Jr. Although he faced tough competition, most of his losses were narrow, with the exception of a clear defeat against Manny Pacquiao.
Since retiring, De La Hoya has showcased his business acumen, becoming a successful promoter and businessman, further enhancing his legacy beyond the ring.
Manny Pacquiao – $200 Million
Manny Pacquiao, a name synonymous with boxing greatness, has amassed around $1 billion in revenue from his pay-per-view fights alone. Beyond his success in the ring, Pacquiao has made a mark as a singer and politician, earning widespread admiration in his native Philippines. Known for his philanthropic efforts to uplift impoverished communities, Pacquiao is celebrated not just for his extraordinary boxing career—where he holds more titles across different weight classes than any other fighter in history—but also for his contributions to society.
Many consider him one of the greatest boxers of all time, both for his achievements and his impact outside the sport.
George Foreman – $300 Million
George Foreman is as well-known for his business ventures and deals outside the ring as he is for his boxing achievements. A two-time heavyweight champion, Foreman’s career stretched over several decades. His most iconic fight was against Muhammad Ali in 1974, where Ali famously emerged victorious. Foreman continued to box professionally until 1997, setting a record as the oldest fighter to retire.
Beyond the ring, he has become a prominent figure as a television personality, author, and successful entrepreneur, particularly known for his lucrative line of grilling appliances. His impact extends far beyond his storied boxing career.
Floyd Mayweather – $450 Million
For boxing enthusiasts, Floyd Mayweather Jr.’s status as the richest boxer in the world comes as no surprise. With an estimated net worth of $450 million, Mayweather’s earnings rival those of top athletes across various sports. His impeccable record of 50-0, including victories over legends like Manny Pacquiao, showcases his dominance in the ring.
Notably, he earned approximately $300 million from a high-profile exhibition match against UFC fighter Conor McGregor. Renowned for his unmatched defensive skills, Mayweather is celebrated as one of the greatest defensive fighters in boxing history, captivating audiences globally with his exceptional technique.
