Heavyweight champion Oleksandr Usyk is poised to secure an eye-watering $105 million purse for his highly anticipated rematch against Tyson Fury. This astronomical figure not only underscores the magnitude of the bout but also sets a new benchmark for fighter compensation in the sport’s storied history.
Salary Shake-Up! Usyk Now Expected To Bank $100 Million https://t.co/EIoc0sivW0
— MMA Mania (@mmamania) December 21, 2024
The rematch, scheduled to take place in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, has generated unprecedented financial interest. According to reports, the total purse for the event is set at a staggering $190 million, with Usyk commanding the lion’s share at 55% compared to Fury’s 45%. This split represents a significant shift from their first encounter, where Fury, despite losing, walked away with a guaranteed $100 million while Usyk earned $45 million.
For the Ukrainian champion, this payday marks a meteoric rise in his earning power. Prior to his first clash with Anthony Joshua, Usyk’s net worth was estimated at a modest $4 million. Following his victories over Joshua and Fury, that figure skyrocketed to $80 million. Now, with this latest purse, Usyk is set to more than double his net worth in a single night, cementing his status as one of boxing’s highest-paid athletes.
While Fury’s share of the purse is smaller than Usyk’s, the “Gypsy King” is still in line for a substantial payday. However, recent reports suggest that Fury could lose up to £29 million of his earnings to taxes, significantly impacting his take-home pay. Despite this, Fury’s net worth, currently estimated at around $140 million, ensures he remains one of the wealthiest figures in the sport.
As fight night approaches, the boxing world waits with bated breath. Will Usyk’s technical brilliance once again prevail over Fury’s size and power? Or will Fury adapt and reclaim his throne atop the heavyweight division?
One thing is certain, regardless of the outcome in the ring, both fighters will emerge as winners in the financial arena. With purses of this magnitude, the real victory may have already been secured long before the first bell rings.
As the countdown to this monumental clash continues, fans and pundits alike are left to ponder not just the potential outcome of the fight, but also the long-term implications of such enormous purses on the future of boxing. Will this set a new standard for fighter pay, or is it a unique product of this particular matchup and venue? Only time will tell, but for now, all eyes are on Riyadh as we await one of the most lucrative and anticipated heavyweight bouts in boxing history.
