Expert: Lian Shoemake - 7/29/2002

Question
Yea i was curious to about how much a profeesional boxer could earn in a year and also what are the chances of a life-risking injury in pro. boxing.thanks in advance

Answer
Hi Shawn,
Thanks for the questions.
The first question is very hard to answer, since purses are determined by so many variables (drawing power of the boxer, expected live gate, television money - when applicable - number of rounds, etc.)
Let's just say the range can be anywhere from a couple hundred bucks for a 4 -8 round prelim, to maybe a thousand or two for a local main event, and up from there depending on some of the factors I mentioned earlier. Five and six figure paydays only apply to very few boxers, usually when television is involved and only after they've either established themselves as a considerable draw (meaning they put butts in seats) or if they're fighting against a considerable draw (like Peter McNeely making big bank against Mike Tyson). Many (most?) boxers have "regular" jobs to have a guranteed income. Like in many other sports, only the most successful can sustain themselves soley on their earnings from the sport.

As for the second question, the risk of injury is considerable. Proper preparation, sensible matchmaking and competent officiating can all serve to reduce the risk, but it will never be eliminated.
I won't quote statistics to show how other sports are far more dangerous than boxing (which is absolutely true),but just know that every boxer who steps into the ring is aware of the risks, and the relative rarity of severe injuries indicates that most folks in pro boxing are taking the necessary steps to insure the safety of the boxers.

I hope this is helpful, Shawn.
Thanks again for writing!
Regards,
Lian