Adrien Broner is an American professional boxer known for his multiple world championship titles across four different weight classes. Despite earning millions throughout his career, Broner’s financial struggles have made headlines, with reports indicating his net worth at just $100,000 as of 2024. While his talent in the ring is undeniable, his financial management, legal troubles, and controversial behavior have significantly impacted his fortune.
Early Life and Background
Born Adrien Jerome Broner on July 28, 1989, in Cincinnati, Ohio, he began boxing at the age of six. Growing up in a rough neighborhood, Broner credits the sport with keeping him away from gang violence. By the time he turned professional in 2008, he had compiled an impressive amateur record of 300 wins and 19 losses, proving himself as a formidable fighter from a young age.
Boxing Career and Achievements
Early Career Success
Broner turned professional in 2008, winning his first three fights via first-round knockouts. He quickly established himself as a rising star, showcasing power, speed, and charisma. By 2011, he had his first major fight against former Super Bantamweight champion Daniel Ponce De Leon, securing a hard-fought victory.
Later that year, Broner captured the WBO Super Featherweight title by defeating Vicente Martin Rodriguez via knockout in the third round. He successfully defended the title against Eloy Perez, but lost it after failing to make weight before a scheduled fight against Vicente Escobedo.
Moving Up in Weight Classes
Broner moved to the lightweight division, where he defeated Antonio DeMarco to win the WBC lightweight title. His dominance continued with victories over Gavin Rees and Carlos Molina. In 2013, he made a bold move to the welterweight division, defeating Paulie Malignaggi for the WBA welterweight title.
However, his rise was halted by Marcos Maidana, who handed Broner his first professional loss in a brutal fight where Broner was knocked down twice. Despite this setback, he continued to fight in multiple weight classes, winning the WBA light welterweight title in 2015 by defeating Khabib Allakhverdiev.
Notable Fights and Decline
Broner’s career saw more ups and downs, including high-profile losses to Shawn Porter, Mikey Garcia, and Manny Pacquiao. His fight against Manny Pacquiao in 2019 earned him a guaranteed $2.5 million plus Pay-Per-View bonuses, but he lost in a unanimous decision.
Career Earnings and Financial Struggles
Despite earning millions in fight purses, including:
- $1 million for fighting Jessie Vargas in 2018
- $2.5 million (before PPV bonuses) against Manny Pacquiao in 2019
Broner’s financial situation took a dramatic downturn. In 2020, he claimed in court that he had just $13 in his bank account and was unable to pay an $855,000 legal judgment.
Real Estate and Lifestyle
In 2016, Broner showcased a $6 million mansion in Atlanta, featuring a grand staircase and a saltwater pool. However, given his reported financial troubles, it remains unclear whether he still owns the property.
Legal Issues and Controversies
Broner’s career has been overshadowed by legal troubles:
- 2016: Charged with a misdemeanor for allegedly choking a waitress at a nightclub.
- 2017: Arrested for failing to appear in court and for knocking out a fan.
- 2018: Sued for $855,000 after allegedly assaulting a woman in a nightclub.
- 2020: Found in contempt of court for failing to prove his inability to pay the lawsuit judgment.
Personal Life and Challenges
Broner has been open about his struggles outside the ring, including financial mismanagement, legal battles, and mental health issues. He has hinted at potential comebacks, but his future in boxing remains uncertain.