Manny Pacquiao

Manny Pacquiao is one of the highest-earning boxers in history and the only fighter to hold world titles in eight different weight divisions. His career fight purses exceeded $500 million, with the Mayweather mega-fight in 2015 alone earning him an estimated $150 million. Pacquiao's earning power in the ring was rivaled only by Mayweather himself, and their 2015 bout remains the highest-grossing pay-per-view event in combat sports history.

Unlike most boxers, Pacquiao diversified his income streams significantly. He served as a senator in the Philippine Senate, ran for president (losing in 2022), and maintained a massive endorsement portfolio in Asia. Nike, Hennessy, and multiple Filipino brands paid premium rates for his endorsement. He also owns extensive real estate in the Philippines, including commercial properties and residential developments, and he has been involved in basketball (as a player-coach in the Philippine Basketball Association).

Pacquiao's story is one of the great rags-to-riches narratives in sports. He grew up in extreme poverty in General Santos City, Philippines, sleeping on cardboard and fighting for food money as a teenager. He became the richest athlete in Philippine history and one of the most beloved figures in the country. His generosity is legendary -- he has reportedly given away tens of millions of dollars to causes in the Philippines, which is why his net worth is estimated at $220 million rather than a higher figure.