(NewsNation) — Mike Tyson is one of the most famous boxers of all time, but his net worth has fluctuated over the years, falling by more than $250 million since his peak.
According to Celebrity Net Worth, Tyson’s current net worth is $30 million. During the peak of his career, it was $300 million. However, Tyson reportedly declared bankruptcy in 2003 with $23 million in debt.
In 2010, Tyson discussed his finances on “The View.”
“I’m totally destitute and broke. But I have an awesome life,” Tyson said. “I have an awesome wife who cares about me… I’m totally broke. I had a lot of fun… I’m very grateful. I don’t deserve the wife that I have. I don’t deserve the kids that I have, but I do, and I’m very grateful.”
Mike Tyson’s earnings during his career
Tyson gained widespread recognition after his televised fight against Jesse Ferguson in 1986. Tyson won the fight after Ferguson was disqualified. In 1987, Tyson signed an eight-fight, $27 million contract with HBO. After that, he signed a longer contract for $120 million with Showtime.
During his career, Tyson reportedly earned at least $430 million from his fights and endorsements.
However, a court case eventually revealed that his promoter, Don King, was taking 30% of his earnings. Some have alleged King would take other fees, adding up to 50% of Tyson’s earnings.
Tyson also had some of his earnings garnished by the federal government.
Approximately $20 million of his current net worth came from his fight in November 2024 against Jake Paul, which took place as part of a live Netflix event.
Mike Tyson spent money on Bengal tigers, animal trainer
Tyson spent most of his money during the prime of his career. His pet Bengal tigers cost around $70,000 each, and the animal trainer he kept on his staff cost $125,000 per year. He also reportedly had one person on his staff whose job was to wear army fatigues and shout “guerrilla warfare” during news conferences. That person was reportedly paid $300,000 per year.
After he was found guilty of rape and served time in prison from 1991 to 1995, Tyson spent more of his money, including $4.5 million on vehicles, $100,000 per month on jewelry and clothes and $400,000 on pigeons and large cats, such as Siberian tigers.
Tyson has also purchased several homes, including a 21-room mansion in Connecticut with a nightclub and casino. Other properties he purchased included an Ohio mansion with gold-plated furnishings and an 11,000-square-foot Las Vegas mansion.
Tyson has reportedly owned more than 100 cars in his lifetime and once spent $1.5 million in just a few minutes when he bought five Bentley Azures.