Don King Net Worth: The Iconic and Controversial Boxing Promoter
Don King is an American businessman who has a net worth of $150 million. Don King is widely regarded as one of the most famous and successful boxing promoters of all time. He regularly made headlines for his unique image and his controversial actions. In terms of his career, Don King has represented some of the biggest names in boxing, including Muhammad Ali, Mike Tyson, George Foreman, Evander Holyfield, Larry Holmes, Julio César Chávez, Andrew Golota, Félix Trinidad, Roy Jones Jr., and Marco Antonio Barrera. He was the promoter behind Muhammad Ali’s most famous fights, the “Rumble in the Jungle” and the “Thrilla in Manila.” Although many remain divided about his contributions to the world of boxing, it is undeniable that Don King has made an impressive name for himself.
Who is Don King
Don King is a well-known American boxing promoter born on August 20, 1931, in Cleveland, Ohio. He is famous for his flamboyant personality and significant influence in the boxing world. King has promoted some of the most high-profile boxing matches and fighters in history, including Muhammad Ali, Mike Tyson, and George Foreman. His career has been marked by both immense success and controversy, with numerous legal and financial disputes. Despite this, King remains a prominent and iconic figure in the sport.
Don King Early Life
Don King was born on August 20th, 1931, in Cleveland, Ohio. After attending high school, he attended Kent State University, although he soon dropped out. King’s early involvement in organized sports were suspect. He initially ran an illegal bookmaking operation out of the basement of a record store, but this operation came to a halt when King was jailed for murder.
While in prison, Don King spent most of his time reading and self-educating. Eventually, King would receive a full pardon for his crimes – but only after he had been released from prison for many years. Numerous high-profile figures wrote letters to the courts in support of King, which undoubtedly contributed to “cleaning up” his image.
Don King Age & Height
Don King, born on August 20, 1931, in Cleveland, is a prominent figure in the boxing world. At 93 years old, he continues to be a significant presence in the sport. Standing at 6 feet 1 inch (1.87 meters), his larger-than-life persona has matched his physical stature throughout his career as a boxing promoter.
Don King Activities Outside of Boxing
In addition to boxing, Don King managed Michael Jackson’s Victory Tour. He also purchased a newspaper called Call and Post and ran it as the editor for many years.
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Don King Legal Issues
When Don King operated his illegal bookmaking operation, he murdered two men. In one incident, King shot a man in the back while he was trying to rob one of his underground gambling establishments. In the other incident, Don King stomped a man to death because he owed King $600. The man was a former employee of King’s. These two murders occurred between 1964 and 1967.
The court came to the conclusion that the first murder, in which King shot a man in the back, was a justifiable homicide since King was being robbed. For the second murder, in which King stomped his employee to death, King was found guilty of second-degree murder. However, this would later be changed to non-negligent manslaughter, as it was deemed to be “in the heat of the moment.”
Don King Breakthrough
Don King’s breakthrough came when he negotiated a record-breaking $10 million purse for the much-anticipated showdown between George Foreman and Mohammed Ali in 1974. The fight was promoted as “The Rumble in the Jungle” and took place in Zaire, Africa. Part of the reason Don King was able to reign supreme over other rival promoters was the fact that he managed to negotiate the purse with the government of Zaire.
In 1975, King promoted another of Ali’s fights, this time against Chuck Wepner. Although many assumed Ali would win against Wepner, the underdog managed to knock Ali down. Fortunately for Ali and King, the journeyman was knocked out in the dying seconds of the fight.
Don King Personal Life
Don King’s wife of 50 years, Henrietta, passed away on December 2, 2010. Don has three kids, five grandchildren, and three great-grandchildren.
King was known for holding a turkey giveaway each Christmas in which he distributed thousands of free turkeys to South Florida residents in need.
FAQs
What is Don King’s birthdate and age?
Don King was born on August 20, 1931. He is currently 93 years old.
Where was Don King born?
Don King was born in Cleveland, Ohio.
What is Don King’s height?
Don King stands at 6 feet 1 inch (1.87 meters) tall.
What is Don King’s net worth?
Don King has a net worth of $150 million.
What are some of Don King’s most famous promotions?
Don King is known for promoting high-profile matches such as Muhammad Ali’s “Rumble in the Jungle” against George Foreman in 1974 and the “Thrilla in Manila” against Joe Frazier in 1975.
Conclusion
Don King stands as a towering figure in the world of boxing, known for his dramatic flair, influential promotions, and controversial past. Born on August 20, 1931, in Cleveland, Ohio, King has had a storied career marked by significant achievements, including orchestrating some of the sport’s most memorable matches, such as the “Rumble in the Jungle.” With a net worth of $150 million, he remains a prominent and polarizing figure. Despite facing legal troubles and controversies, King’s impact on boxing and his larger-than-life personality have cemented his place in the sport’s history. His personal life, marked by a long marriage and philanthropic efforts, adds depth to his complex legacy.
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