Net Worth Ranker
What Is Gene Okerlund Net Worth?
At the time of his death on January 2, 2019, Eugene Arthur “Mean Gene” Okerlund, the legendary American professional wrestling announcer and interviewer, had a net worth estimated at $9 million. This substantial net worth was accumulated through his decades-long career in the wrestling industry, endorsement deals, and business ventures.
Gene Okerlund’s Career and Earnings
Okerlund began his career in radio before transitioning to professional wrestling in 1974, joining the American Wrestling Association (AWA). He moved to the World Wrestling Federation (WWF, now WWE) in 1984, where he became a household name. During his time with the WWF, Okerlund served as their top interviewer and hosted shows like *All-American Wrestling*. He was also the first person to sing the National Anthem at WrestleMania I in 1985.
In 1993, Okerlund left the WWF and joined World Championship Wrestling (WCW). He returned to WWE in 2001 after the company purchased WCW. During his career, Okerlund secured a lifetime contract with WWE and made occasional appearances, including hosting *WWE Confidential* in 2002. His estimated earnings in the late 1980s provide a glimpse into his financial success during that era. In 1987, his earnings were reported to be $367,923. They decreased slightly to $324,975 in 1988, $309,639 in 1989, but then rose again to $330,539 in 1990. Okerlund’s career earnings were further supplemented by his role in major wrestling events like WrestleMania and collaborations with wrestling stars such as Hulk Hogan.
Beyond wrestling contracts and television appearances, Okerlund also ventured into the restaurant business. He lent his name to the fast-food chains “Mean Gene’s Burgers” and “Mean Gene’s Pizza”. In 2002, “Mean Gene’s Burgers” held its grand opening at West Virginia University’s Mountainlair food court, featuring a visit from Okerlund himself, a hamburger-eating contest with a $200 cash prize, and other prizes. In 2008, he became a shareholder in the “Two-Fisted Feedery” chain.
Okerlund’s departure from WWE in 1993 stemmed from the company’s decision not to renew his contract at the time. Jim Ross, WWE’s Head of Talent Relations in the early 1990s and early 2000s, recalled that Vince McMahon wanted a “fresh look” and younger talent. This led Okerlund to sign with WCW in November 1993, where he remained until WWE’s acquisition of the company in 2001. His contract with WCW was set to expire on October 31, 1999, and he was paid $2,200 per day. In 2006, Hulk Hogan inducted Okerlund into the WWE Hall of Fame, a testament to his contributions to the wrestling industry.
Real Estate and Personal Life
Okerlund and his wife, Jeanne, lived in Sarasota, Florida. They were married on March 27, 1964, and had two children, including Todd Okerlund, a hockey star at the University of Minnesota and a member of the 1988 US Olympics team. Todd Okerlund later became the CEO of an advertising company in Minnesota and co-led other ventures, including ClassicWrestling.com, a website where people can download old wrestling videos.
Okerlund’s primary income sources included wrestling contracts, business ventures, and TV appearances. He also owned several properties, including a luxurious home in Sarasota, Florida.
