FEW would begrudge boxers their earnings, but the number of them making huge amounts is still few when compared with other sports. With that in mind we count down the top 5 living boxers by estimated net worth.

5. Lennox Lewis, 41-2-1 (32), Estimated net worth: $140m
THE last undisputed heavyweight champion of the world has invested his career earnings wisely, and maximised his retirement fund with smart stock investments, endorsements and a sizeable property portfolio, boosting his in-ring earnings considerably over recent years. Born in London, Lewis won Olympic gold for Canada in 1988, although returned to his country of birth to launch his assault on the pro ranks. He won the WBC title stripped from Riddick Bowe whilst on holiday in December 1992, defended it three times, including his high-profile fight with Frank Bruno in 1993 that banked him $8m – the first time two Brits had contested a heavyweight world championship. Two fights with Evander Holyfield in 1999 earned the 6ft 5in puncher around $30m, and he netted $17.5m for his 2002 megafight with Mike Tyson, which remains the highest grossing heavyweight PPV in history. Lewis retired after 2003’s controversial clash with Vitali Klitschko, and resisted all mega-money offers over the years to sign for a rematch.

Next page: No. 4

[sources: TheRichest.com / Boxrec]

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