Thomas "Hitman" Hearns: The Boxing Legend's Journey

So, What's Thomas "Hitman" Hearns' Net Worth?

Thomas Hearns, the iconic American former professional boxer, has an estimated net worth of $450 thousand. That might not sound like much compared to today's big-name athletes, but let’s remember that this man made history in the ring and paved the way for countless fighters who followed in his footsteps.

Hearns competed from 1977 to 2006, earning his nickname "The Hitman" because of his incredible striking power. He achieved something no one else had done before—winning world titles in five different weight divisions. That’s right, five: welterweight, light middleweight, middleweight, super middleweight, and light heavyweight. His prowess earned him the Fighter of the Year award from Ring magazine not once, but twice—in 1980 and 1984.

Hearns vs. Leonard: A Clash of Titans

Back in 1981, Hearns was riding high with an impressive 32-0 professional record when he agreed to face off against the legendary Sugar Ray Leonard. Unfortunately, this was the fight where Hearns tasted his first professional loss. But hey, there’s a silver lining here: both fighters walked away with a combined $17 million, equivalent to about $50 million in today's money. That was the largest purse in sports history at the time, proving just how much anticipation surrounded this epic showdown.

Read also:

Elaine Welteroths Net Worth 2024 The Journey Of A Powerhouse Journalist

Struggles Outside the Ring

Even legends face challenges off the canvas. In 2010, Hearns found himself in financial trouble after reportedly racking up around $450,000 in debt to the IRS. He ended up auctioning off some of his most prized possessions, including a cherished 1957 Chevy, three boats, a motorcycle, and boxing memorabilia. Despite these hardships, Hearns managed to pay off his debts fully and kept moving forward.

Early Days: The Making of a Champion

Born on October 18, 1958, in Grand Junction, Tennessee, Thomas Hearns grew up as the youngest of three children from his mother Lois's first marriage. Later, through his mom’s second marriage, he gained six more siblings, making for quite the large family. At the tender age of five, Hearns moved with his family to Detroit, Michigan, where his journey to greatness began.

Amateur Boxing: Building a Foundation

Before turning pro, Hearns dominated the amateur boxing scene. By the time he wrapped up his amateur career in 1977, he boasted an impressive record of 155-8. That same year, he claimed two major titles: the National Amateur Athletic Union Light Welterweight Championship and the National Golden Gloves Light Welterweight Championship. These wins set the stage for what was to come.

Professional Career: 1977-1989 – The Rise to Glory

Hearns’ professional career kicked off under the guidance of the legendary trainer Emanuel Steward, who helped transform Hearns into one of boxing’s hardest hitters. Early on, Hearns went undefeated, carrying a perfect 28-0 record into his first world title match against Pipino Cuevas in 1980. He didn’t disappoint, taking down Cuevas in the second round via TKO and ending Cuevas’ four-year reign.

That year, Hearns was named Fighter of the Year by Ring magazine. The following year, he faced Sugar Ray Leonard and, despite losing, made history again by earning a massive purse. Hearns then moved up in weight and claimed the WBC super welterweight title by defeating three-time world champion Wilfred Benítez. Defending his title against the likes of Roberto Durán, Hearns became the first boxer ever to knock out the tough Panamanian fighter, earning him another Fighter of the Year award.

In 1985, Hearns challenged middleweight champion Marvin Hagler in a bout that became one of boxing’s all-time classics. Both fighters became instant legends after a brutal three-round fight that ended when Hearns couldn’t continue due to injuries. But Hearns bounced back the next year, knocking out James Shuler in the first round. In 1987, Hearns added the WBC light heavyweight title to his collection after flooring Dennis Andries six times in one fight. He also claimed the WBC middleweight title against Juan Roldán but lost it to Iran Barkley the next year. Later, Hearns became the first boxer ever to win world titles in five different weight divisions when he defeated James Kinchen for the WBO super middleweight title.

Read also:

Jonathan Lemires Net Worth In 2024 A Closer Look At His Wealth And Career

Professional Career: 1990-2006 – The Final Rounds

Hearns’ last great fight came in 1991 when he took on the undefeated WBA light heavyweight champion Virgil Hill. This was Hill’s 11th and final title defense, as Hearns emerged victorious. However, Hearns lost the title the following year to his old rival Iran Barkley. Despite this setback, Hearns continued to win fights, including a memorable match against Jay Snyder in 1998, featuring a rare double knockdown. Hearns also claimed the IBO cruiserweight title in 1999 after beating Nate Miller by unanimous decision.

In the early 2000s, Hearns faced Uriah Grant and had to retire due to an injury, causing frustration among fans. But true to form, Hearns returned five years later, defeating John Long via TKO. His final fight came in 2006, where he once again triumphed over Shannon Landberg by TKO.

Beyond the Ring: Personal Life

Hearns runs a fight promotion company called Hearns Entertainment alongside his mother Lois. Together, they continue to support boxing and the community. Hearns also has a son named Ronald who followed in his father’s footsteps and became a boxer himself.

Today, Hearns lives in Southfield, Michigan, a suburb of Detroit. Though he faced financial difficulties in 2010, auctioning off many of his prized possessions, he remains a beloved figure in the boxing world. His resilience and dedication to the sport have left an indelible mark on boxing history.