Born on Feb. 24, 1977, in Grand Rapids, Michigan, Floyd Mayweather, Jr., was destined for the ring. Boxing ran in his blood, with his father, Floyd, Sr., a former welterweight contender, and his uncles, Jeff and Roger Mayweather, both professional boxers. This family background laid the foundation for what would become an illustrious boxing career.
Mayweather’s boxing career, characterized by 50 wins and no losses, laid the foundation for his financial empire. His matches, known for their tactical finesse, weren’t just sports events; they were global spectacles. High-profile fights with Manny Pacquiao and Conor McGregor, which broke pay-per-view records, greatly increased his wealth.
Billionaires.Africa highlights eight entrepreneurial ventures that Mayweather has built and acquired over the years that have transformed him from an ordinary boy from Grand Rapids, Michigan, to a multimillionaire.
- Mayweather Promotions: Established in 2006, Mayweather Promotions became the cornerstone of his business empire. This venture not only managed his bouts but also nurtured other fighters, including WBA lightweight champion Gervonta Davis. It marked a shift in the business of boxing and significantly contributed to Mayweather’s earnings​​​​.
- Fashion and Merchandise: His entry into the fashion industry includes merchandised TMT (The Money Team) accessories, ranging from sportswear to boxing equipment​​.
- Skate Rock City: Reflecting his interest in outdoor activities, Mayweather purchased a roller skate park in Las Vegas, offering various entertainment options for families and youngsters​​​​.
- TMT Racing: Venturing into car racing, Mayweather owns the company ‘TMT Racing’​​.
- Real Estate and Skyscrapers: Mayweather owns nine skyscrapers in New York, including One Vanderbilt, showcasing his significant investment in real estate​​​​.
- Fitness Gyms: Mayweather Boxing & Fitness, launched in 2018, has expanded globally with plans to open more than a hundred studios. These gyms offer high-intensity workouts and have witnessed significant franchise interest​​.
- Stock Investments: Mayweather has also diversified into stock investments, further bolstering his financial portfolio​​.
- Philanthropic Foundation: The Floyd Mayweather Jr. Foundation, established in 2009, focuses on public health, economic support, and educational opportunities for adults and adolescents​​.
Mayweather’s transformation from an undefeated boxing champion to a successful entrepreneur is a striking example of leveraging fame and shrewd business sense to create a substantial financial legacy. Renowned as a major pay-per-view attraction in sports, he has repeatedly topped Forbes and Sports Illustrated’s highest-paid athlete lists.
His career, generating about 24 million PPV buys and $1.67 billion in revenue, saw him become the world’s highest-paid athlete in 2018, earning $285 million, including endorsements.
With estimated career earnings of around $1.2 billion, Mayweather’s move from the ring to the business world underscores his prowess in adapting, innovating, and dominating across various fields.
