Don King Net Worth: Life & Career
Don King has garnered a lot of attention for a variety of reasons other than boxing, one of which is his gravity-defying hair, and the other his catchphrase – Only in America. Another point of interest in the promoter’s life is the size of his wealth. While on vacation, King built his empire by launching the careers of boxing luminaries and managing lucrative fighting championships. However, his financial dealings and bizarre contractual terms with his fighters have left some people unpaid and uncertain as to where the money will go. As such, his fame, as well as his purse, reached such a point that he left some of the various heavyweight champions he promoted in his shadow. He has an estimated net worth of $150 million.
Who is Don King?
Don King is a renowned boxing promoter known for his flamboyant style and major influence in the sport. Born on August 20, 1931, in Cleveland, Ohio, he promoted some of the most famous boxing matches, including Ali vs. Foreman and Ali vs. Frazier II. Despite his success, King has faced numerous legal issues and controversies, including a manslaughter conviction in the 1960s. His impact on boxing promotion remains significant, making him a memorable and controversial figure in the sport’s history.
Career achievements as a boxing promoter
After his pardon, Don King entered the boxing business, forming a partnership with a local promoter, he gained experience in the art of boxing promotion. In 1972, with the help of singer Lloyd Price, he convinced Ali to participate in a charity show to raise money for a hospital in Cleveland. Two years later, he became a full-time promoter with the highly anticipated 1974 Ali-Foreman fight in Zaire, famous for The Rumble in the Jungle in which Ali regained his championship title. Since then, his image hovers over professional boxing.
Don King then staged Alidont’s Seventh Battle One with Chuck Wepner in 1975, which Ali won in the dying seconds. Sylvester Stallone witnessed the fight and was inspired to write the award-winning book Rocky. This was followed by another fight of the era, the Philippine Thrilla in Manila, the fight between Ali and Frazier in 1975. The match, considered the greatest match of all time, cemented Don King’s future as a promoter. During the 70s he became the promoter of choice for many other top heavyweight championships in the 1980s and 1990s.
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Don King and politics
Outside of boxing, King is politically active. In 2004, he campaigned for George W. Bush in the presidential election and attended the Republican National Convention in New York. Additionally, he supported Bush’s successor, Barack Obama, in the 2008 and 2012 presidential elections.Abandoning his political endeavors, he managed Michael Jackson’s reunion, The Jacksons’ 1984 Victory Tour ventured into media publication. He bought Call and Post, a Cleveland-based weekly newspaper serving the African-American community in Ohio in 1998, which he has served as publisher since 2011. Don King worked with Donald Trump in the 1980s to promote Tyson’s title fights and years later., when the latter ran for the nation’s highest office, his old friend, King, was there to endorse him for president.
Don King His wife and his children
King married his wife Henrietta in 1959 and they had three children; a biological daughter named Debbie and two adopted sons, Carl and Eric. He considers her the force behind the success he has achieved in life and calls her his best friend. After a long illness and almost fifty years of marriage, Henrietta died on December 2, 2010 at the age of 87.
Don King Future Plan
Don King future plans are largely focused on continuing his involvement in boxing promotion. Despite being 93 years old, he remains active in the industry, aiming to promote high-profile fights and maintain his influence in the sport. King is also dedicated to supporting emerging fighters and leveraging his extensive experience to shape the future of boxing. His commitment to the sport reflects his enduring passion and desire to contribute to boxing’s ongoing evolution.
FACTS
- Birthdate: August 20, 1931.
- Birthplace: Cleveland, Ohio, USA.
- Occupation: Boxing promoter.
- Famous Promotions: “Rumble in the Jungle” (Ali vs. Foreman) and “Thriller in Manila” (Ali vs. Frazier II).
- Legal Issues: Convicted of manslaughter in 1967 for a fatal altercation.
- Net Worth: Estimated at $150 million as of 2024.
- Notable Fighters Promoted: Muhammad Ali, Mike Tyson, George Foreman.
- Distinctive Style: Known for his flamboyant personality and unique hairstyles.
- Career Start: Began promoting boxing in the 1970s.
- Legacy: Significant influence on modern boxing promotion and a memorable figure in sports history.
FAQs
What is Don King known for?
Don King is known for his role as a prominent boxing promoter, responsible for organizing many high-profile boxing matches.
When and where was Don King born?
He was born on August 20, 1931, in Cleveland, Ohio, USA.
What are some of the most famous fights Don King promoted?
Notable fights include “Rumble in the Jungle” (Muhammad Ali vs. George Foreman) and “Thriller in Manila” (Muhammad Ali vs. Joe Frazier II).
Has Don King faced any legal issues?
Yes, Don King was convicted of manslaughter in 1967 for a fatal altercation and has faced other legal and financial controversies throughout his career.
What is Don King estimated net worth?
As of 2024, Don King estimated net worth is around $150 million.
Conclusion
Don King is a legendary boxing promoter known for his high-profile fight promotions and flamboyant style. Despite legal controversies and his advanced age, he remains an influential figure in boxing, with an estimated net worth of $150 million. His impact on the sport is profound, marked by his involvement in some of the most iconic matches in boxing history.
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