What Is Zab Judah’s Net Worth?
Zab Judah, a prominent figure in American professional boxing, has accumulated a net worth of approximately $8 million. This financial standing reflects his successful career as a former Undisputed World Welterweight Champion and his achievements across the light welterweight and welterweight divisions. Judah secured five world titles, marking significant milestones in his boxing journey.
Early Life and Career Beginnings
Zabdiel “Zab” Judah was born on October 27, 1977, in Brooklyn, New York. His introduction to boxing occurred at the early age of six, setting the stage for his future career. Before turning professional, Judah compiled an impressive amateur record of 110 wins and only 5 losses, showcasing his early talent and dedication to the sport.
Professional Boxing Career and Title Wins
Judah transitioned to professional boxing in 1996. Four years later, in 2000, he clinched the IBF junior welterweight title by defeating Jan Piet Bergman with a fourth-round knockout. Over the next year, Judah successfully defended his IBF title five times, solidifying his position in the division. However, in 2001, he faced Kostya Tszyu, resulting in a second-round TKO loss. The fight’s stoppage was controversial, leading to Judah’s frustration and a subsequent six-month suspension along with a $75,000 fine.
In 2003, Judah rebounded by securing the WBO Junior Welterweight title with a win over DeMarcus Corley. He defended this title once before moving up to the welterweight division, marking a strategic shift in his career trajectory.
Notable Fights and Earnings
One of Judah’s significant career moments came in 2004 when he faced Cory Spinks, initially losing by unanimous decision. However, he avenged this defeat ten months later with a ninth-round knockout victory over Spinks. This win was crucial for Judah, re-establishing his prominence in the welterweight division.
In 2006, Judah faced Carlos Baldomir and suffered a loss by unanimous decision. This fight was preceded by unsportsmanlike conduct, impacting the perception of the match. Despite the loss, Judah’s career continued with a high-profile bout against Floyd Mayweather Jr.
The Floyd Mayweather Jr. Fight
The fight against Floyd Mayweather Jr. on April 8, 2006, was a significant financial event in Judah’s career. Mayweather was guaranteed a minimum of $5 million, while Judah was guaranteed $1 million plus a percentage of the profits exceeding $7 million. The fight itself was marred by controversy, including low blows and a subsequent melee involving both fighters’ camps. Ultimately, Mayweather won by unanimous decision. Following the fight, Judah was fined $350,000 and had his license suspended for a year, affecting his earnings and career.
Later Career and Retirement
Judah regained the IBF welterweight title in 2011, adding another accolade to his career. However, his career concluded in 2019 after suffering a brain bleed during a stoppage loss to Cletus Seldin. Throughout his career, Judah achieved 44 wins out of 56 fights, with 30 victories coming by way of knockout, highlighting his power and skill in the ring. While specific earnings for each fight beyond the Mayweather bout are not detailed in the provided information, his overall performance contributed to his $8 million net worth.
Family and Personal Life
Zab Judah’s father and trainer, Yoel Judah, is a six-time kickboxing champion and a ninth-degree black belt, playing a significant role in Judah’s boxing development. Zab comes from a large family with ten brothers and four sisters. Several of his brothers are also involved in boxing, with Josiah, Daniel, and Joseph Judah fighting professionally, indicating a strong family connection to the sport.
In addition to his boxing career, Judah volunteers, teaching a nursing assistant class and assisting at an adult daycare facility for patients with dementia, showcasing his commitment to community service.
Net Worth Components
Zab Judah’s $8 million net worth is primarily derived from his earnings as a professional boxer. His income is based on fight purses, including the guaranteed $1 million plus a percentage of profits over $7 million from the Floyd Mayweather Jr. fight. Endorsement deals and potential investments are not specifically detailed in the provided information, but they likely contributed to his overall financial status. The various title wins and high-profile fights throughout his career significantly boosted his earnings. The details of specific properties or other assets are not available, but his boxing career served as the foundation for his net worth.