Tommy Morrison Net Worth

Overview

Tommy David Morrison (January 2, 1969 – September 1, 2013), known as “The Duke”, was an American professional boxer who competed from 1988 to 2009, and briefly ventured into mixed martial arts. He achieved considerable fame and success in the 1990s as a heavyweight boxer, winning the WBO heavyweight title in 1993 against George Foreman. Morrison’s powerful left hook and punching ability made him a formidable opponent in the ring. Beyond boxing, Morrison also appeared in the 1990 film Rocky V, playing Tommy Gunn. However, his career was marred by controversy and health issues. In 1996, Morrison tested positive for HIV, leading to his suspension from boxing. He later disputed the accuracy of the test results, attempting a comeback in the sport. Outside the ring, Morrison faced legal troubles and personal struggles. He passed away at the age of 44 due to complications from AIDS.

What Is Tommy Morrison’s Net Worth?

Tommy Morrison, the former World Boxing Organization (WBO) champion, had a net worth of approximately $10,000 at the time of his death. This relatively modest net worth is surprising considering his successful boxing career and brief foray into acting.

Early Career and Boxing Achievements

Tommy David Morrison, born on January 2, 1969, embarked on his boxing journey at a young age. He reportedly used a fake ID to participate in “toughman” contests at the age of 13, much younger than the minimum age of 21. Details surrounding his participation in these contests state that he claimed to have lost only one out of 50 fights. As an amateur, he secured the Kansas City Golden Gloves and built an amateur record of 222 wins and 20 losses.

In November 1988, Morrison turned professional, marking his debut with a first-round knockout victory over William Muhammad in New York City. His early professional career was marked by a string of wins, quickly gaining him recognition in the boxing world.

Acting Role in Rocky V and Subsequent Career Highlights

Morrison’s career saw a boost when he was cast in the movie “Rocky V” (1990), starring alongside Sylvester Stallone. He played Tommy Gunn, a protégé of Rocky Balboa. In 1991, Tommy Morrison faced his first professional defeat against Ray Mercer, who knocked him out in the fifth round to claim the WBO title. This fight was a significant test for Morrison, pitting him against another undefeated fighter.

In 1993, Tommy Morrison had the opportunity to fight for the WBO title once again, this time against boxing legend George Foreman. Despite both fighters being known for their powerful punches, Morrison won the closely contested bout, securing the WBO title. However, his reign was short-lived. In October 1993, Morrison lost the title to Michael Bentt in a first-round knockout, marking a significant upset in his career. His third professional loss came in 1995 against WBC champion Lennox Lewis. The fight against Lewis was a high-profile event, further solidifying Morrison’s presence in the heavyweight division.

Health Issues and Late Career

In 1996, Tommy Morrison was forced to retire from boxing after testing HIV-positive. This diagnosis significantly altered his career path. However, he later fought in Japan, where there were no regulations prohibiting HIV-positive boxers from competing, defeating Marcus Rhode in two rounds. He also participated in two more fights in 2007 and 2008, continuing his involvement in the sport despite his health condition. During these later years, he faced multiple convictions for driving under the influence, assault, and drug and weapons charges, leading to legal troubles and incarceration.

Final Years and Cause of Death

Tommy Morrison’s health deteriorated in his final years. He spent over a year bedridden before his death on September 1, 2013, at a hospital in Omaha, Nebraska. The official cause of death was respiratory failure and complications from Guillain-Barré syndrome, though his wife denied that he had HIV.

Despite a career marked by both highs and lows, Tommy Morrison’s reported net worth of $10,000 reflects the financial challenges he faced later in life, including health issues, legal troubles, and time away from the ring. His legacy remains as a fighter who achieved significant success in the boxing world but whose career was ultimately cut short by health concerns.