Evander Holyfield is one of the most recognized names in the history of professional boxing. Known for his unmatched determination and legendary comebacks, Holyfield’s journey from poverty to the pinnacle of the heavyweight boxing world is nothing short of inspiring. This article explores Evander Holyfield’s net worth, biography, height, weight, family life, career, awards, achievements, and social media presence.
Evander Holyfield’s Net Worth in 2025
Despite earning more than $500 million during his boxing career, Evander Holyfield’s current net worth is estimated to be $1 million as of 2025. Financial troubles, high-profile divorces, and real estate losses led to a sharp decline in his wealth. Yet, Holyfield remains active in public life and continues to inspire through charity and motivational appearances.
Net Worth Table
Category | Details |
Net Worth (2025) | $1 million |
Career Earnings | $513 million |
Major Sources of Income | Boxing, Endorsements, TV |
Financial Setback Year | 2012 |
Mansion Foreclosure | Yes (Atlanta Mansion) |
Current Financial Activities | Motivational Speaking, Media |
Bio Table
Full Name | Evander Holyfield |
Date of Birth | October 19, 1962 |
Age (2025) | 62 years old |
Birthplace | Atmore, Alabama, United States |
Nationality | American |
Height | 1.89 meters (6 ft 2 in) |
Weight | 102 kg (225 lbs) |
Profession | Retired Professional Boxer |
Nickname | “The Real Deal” |
Active Years | 1984 – 2011 |
Division | Cruiserweight, Heavyweight |
Early Life of Evander Holyfield
Evander Holyfield was born in Atmore, Alabama, as the youngest of nine children. He grew up in a poor household and moved to Atlanta, Georgia, at a young age. His passion for boxing started early at just 7 years old. He trained at the Boys & Girls Club and by the age of 13, he qualified for the Junior Olympics.
From early childhood, Holyfield showed signs of discipline and grit. At 15, he won the Southeastern Regional Championship, marking the beginning of a career that would span nearly three decades.
Career Overview
Evander Holyfield’s professional career began in 1984 after a bronze medal win at the Los Angeles Summer Olympics. His first pro fight took place at Madison Square Garden against Lionel Byarm, where he emerged victorious in the sixth round. It was the start of a career that saw him dominate both the Cruiserweight and Heavyweight divisions.
Key Career Highlights:
- 1985: Won WBA Cruiserweight Title by defeating Dwight Muhammad Qawi.
- 1988: Became Undisputed Cruiserweight Champion.
- 1990: Moved to Heavyweight, defeating James “Buster” Douglas to win the WBA, WBC, and IBF Heavyweight titles.
- 1996: Achieved a comeback victory over Mike Tyson.
- 1997: Fought Tyson again in the infamous “bite fight”.
- 2000s: Continued fighting, with sporadic wins and losses until retiring in 2011.
Holyfield is the only boxer to win the World Heavyweight Championship four times, a record that stands unmatched.
Evander Holyfield’s Boxing Record
Total Fights | Wins | Wins by KO | Losses | Draws | No Contests |
57 | 44 | 29 | 10 | 2 | 1 |
Awards and Achievements
Holyfield’s list of awards is long and well-deserved. His legacy is not only built on victories but also on perseverance and heart.
Major Awards and Achievements
- 1983: Silver Medal, Pan American Games
- 1984: Bronze Medal, Summer Olympics (Light Heavyweight)
- 1990: Undisputed Heavyweight Champion
- 1996: BBC Sports Personality World Sport Star of the Year
- 1997: ESPY Award for Best Comeback Athlete
- 1997: ESPY Award for Dramatic Individual Performance
- 1994, 1997, 1998: Best Boxer ESPY Awards
- 2017: Inducted into the International Boxing Hall of Fame
Holyfield was known for his resilience in the ring, often beating stronger opponents with tactical discipline and unmatched conditioning.
Relationships and Family
Evander Holyfield has been married three times and is the father of 11 children from multiple relationships.
Relationship Table
Spouse Name | Marriage Period | Status |
Paulette Bowen | 1985–1991 | Divorced |
Janice Itson | 1996–2000 | Divorced |
Candi Calvana Smith | 2003–2012 | Divorced |
Children:
- Elijah Esaias Holyfield
- Eleazar Evan Holyfield
- Ebonne Esheal Holyfield
- Evander Holyfield Jr.
- Elijah Jedidiah Holyfield
- Eve Elizabeth Holyfield
- Evette Ashley Holyfield
- Eli Ethan Holyfield
- Eden Eloise Holyfield
- Ewen Ezekiel Holyfield
- Emani Winter Holyfield
His son, Elijah Esaias Holyfield, is also a professional athlete who plays football in the NFL.
Personal Struggles and Bankruptcy
Holyfield’s financial issues became public in 2012. Despite earning more than $500 million during his career, his lavish spending habits, child support payments, and legal troubles drained his finances.
His Atlanta mansion, once worth over $10 million, was auctioned due to foreclosure. The high cost of his divorces and mismanaged investments played a significant role in his financial downfall.
Yet Holyfield remained positive. He focused on charity, spiritual growth, and mentoring young athletes.
Top Movies and Appearances
Evander Holyfield made several appearances in films, television shows, and reality series. His fame extended beyond the boxing ring.
Top Movies and TV Appearances
Title | Role | Year |
Real Sports with Bryant Gumbel | Himself (Interview) | Various |
Dancing with the Stars (Season 1) | Contestant | 2005 |
Fresh Prince of Bel-Air | Himself (Cameo) | 1990s |
Celebrity Big Brother UK | Contestant | 2014 |
Grudge Match | Himself (Cameo) | 2013 |
His presence in entertainment helped maintain his popularity even after retirement.
Social Media Presence
Holyfield stays connected with his fans through social media. He shares motivational content, boxing memories, and updates on his activities.
Social Media Table
Platform | Username / Handle | Followers (2025) |
@evanderholyfield | 400K+ | |
@holyfield | 300K+ | |
@EvanderHolyfieldOfficial | 250K+ | |
YouTube | Holyfield TV | 75K+ |
Legacy and Current Activities
Evander Holyfield’s legacy is defined by more than just titles. He represents determination, humility, and spiritual strength. After retirement, he engaged in charity work, and motivational speaking, and even launched his own foundation, The Holyfield Foundation, which supports underprivileged youth.
In boxing history, he is remembered as the only four-time heavyweight world champion. His rivalry with Mike Tyson remains one of the most talked-about sagas in sports.
Conclusion
Evander Holyfield’s story teaches resilience. From humble beginnings to global fame, from riches to bankruptcy, and yet a man who remains grounded in faith and purpose. His contributions to boxing and society make him a true champion, not just in the ring but in life.
As of 2025, Holyfield continues to be honored by fans, athletes, and historians alike. His name will forever be etched in the annals of boxing history.