Thomas Hearns Net Worth 2024, Salary and Earnings: Thomas “Hitman” Hearns, a legendary five-division world champion boxer with an estimated net worth of $450,000 in 2024, boasts a professional record of 61 wins (48 by knockout), 5 losses, and 1 draw, and is renowned for his powerful punching ability across multiple weight classes.
Thomas “Hitman” Hearns: Boxing Legend and Financial Journey
Key Takeaways
- Thomas Hearns achieved unprecedented success as a five-division world champion boxer.
- His current net worth is estimated at $450,000.
- Financial challenges later in life led to auctioning of possessions to settle tax debts.
- Hearns’ boxing career spanned from 1977 to 2006.
- He was inducted into the International Boxing Hall of Fame in 2012.
Early Life and Background
Thomas Hearns was born on October 18, 1958, in Grand Junction, Tennessee. The youngest of three children from his mother’s first marriage, Hearns moved to Detroit, Michigan at age five. This relocation proved pivotal in shaping his future boxing career.
Growing up in Detroit, Hearns found his way into boxing at a young age. The city’s rich boxing culture and the guidance of legendary trainer Emanuel Steward at the Kronk Gym provided the perfect environment for Hearns to develop his skills.
Amateur Career and Rise to Prominence
Hearns’ amateur career was stellar, with a record of 155-8. In 1977, he clinched both the National Amateur Athletic Union Light Welterweight Championship and the National Golden Gloves Light Welterweight Championship, setting the stage for his professional career.
Professional Career Highlights
Turning pro in 1977, Hearns quickly made a name for himself. His professional debut saw him defeat Jerome Hill by knockout in the second round, marking the beginning of an impressive 17-fight knockout streak.
Hearns’ career reached new heights in 1980 when he faced José “Pipino” Cuevas for the WBA Welterweight title. In a stunning display of power, Hearns stopped Cuevas in the second round, claiming his first world title and earning The Ring magazine’s Fighter of the Year award.
Throughout his career, Hearns achieved the remarkable feat of winning world titles in five weight divisions: Welterweight, Light Middleweight, Middleweight, Super Middleweight, and Light Heavyweight.
Some of Hearns’ most memorable fights include:
- The 1981 bout against Sugar Ray Leonard, his first professional loss.
- The 1984 demolition of Roberto Durán.
- The 1985 “War” with Marvin Hagler, considered one of boxing’s greatest fights.
Thomas Hearns Stats
Hearns’ professional record stands at:
- Total fights: 67
- Wins: 61
- Losses: 5
- Draws: 1
- Wins by knockout: 48
This impressive record underscores Hearns’ nickname “The Hitman” and his reputation as one of boxing’s most fearsome punchers.
Financial Journey and Net Worth
Despite earning millions during his boxing career, Hearns’ financial situation has seen ups and downs. His current net worth is estimated at $450,000, a figure that might surprise many given his illustrious career.
In 1981, Hearns and Sugar Ray Leonard earned a combined $17 million for their fight, equivalent to about $50 million today. This purse was the largest in sports history at that time.
However, Hearns faced financial difficulties later in life. In 2010, he was forced to auction off many possessions to settle a tax debt of approximately $450,000. Items auctioned included a 1957 Chevy, three boats, and various boxing memorabilia.
Hearns attributed his financial troubles to generosity towards his large extended family. Despite these challenges, he managed to fully satisfy his tax debt.
Personal Life and Family
Hearns’ family has been deeply involved in the boxing world. His mother, Lois Hearns, became a fight promoter. Together, they formed Hearns Entertainment, which has promoted various boxing events, including the Mike Tyson-Andrew Golota bout in 2000.
Hearns’ son, Ronald, followed in his father’s footsteps and became a professional boxer, often fighting on the undercard of his father’s later bouts.
Legacy and Achievements
Thomas Hearns’ impact on boxing extends far beyond his in-ring accomplishments. He was inducted into the International Boxing Hall of Fame in 2012, cementing his status as one of the sport’s all-time greats.
Hearns is ranked 18th on The Ring magazine’s list of 100 greatest punchers of all time. His ability to carry his punching power across multiple weight divisions set him apart from many of his contemporaries.
Latest News
On October 19, 2024, Thomas “Hitman” Hearns made headlines when he appeared at a political rally in Detroit with former President Donald Trump. The event, held at Huntington Place, saw Hearns joining Trump on stage, creating a stir among both boxing fans and political observers.
This unexpected appearance led to widespread reactions on social media. Trump welcomed Hearns warmly, referring to him as a “great champion” and praising his boxing career.
The rally, part of Trump’s campaign efforts for the 2024 presidential election, focused on themes of “Making Detroit Great Again,” with Hearns’ presence seemingly aimed at bolstering support in the crucial Michigan region.
Thomas “Hitman” Hearns’ journey from a young boxer in Detroit to a five-division world champion is a testament to his skill, determination, and impact on the sport of boxing. While his financial situation has seen fluctuations, his legacy as one of boxing’s most exciting and accomplished fighters remains intact. Hearns’ story serves as both an inspiration and a cautionary tale, highlighting the highs of athletic achievement and the challenges that can follow a successful sports career.
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