Ric Flair, a legendary name in professional wrestling, has made a significant impact over his decades-long career. The 16-time world champion’s time with the National Wrestling Alliance (NWA) and later WWE and WCW helped establish his reputation as one of the greatest in the business. Despite his fame and success, Flair’s financial history tells a different story, especially as he lived his larger-than-life “Nature Boy” persona both inside and outside the ring.
While he was once a multi-millionaire, making substantial earnings during the 1990s, Flair’s wealth drastically dwindled over the years. As of 2022, his net worth was reported at only $500,000, a stark contrast to the wealth he once enjoyed. Much of his financial decline can be attributed to his extravagant lifestyle and poor money management. Flair famously lived large, spending enormous sums on things like $40,000 robes and lavish cars, while often indulging in expensive dining and jewelry. This, however, was only part of the story.
Flair’s financial issues were also compounded by his tax troubles. In the 1980s, he failed to pay taxes, resulting in the IRS pursuing him for decades. By 2005, the IRS had seized his earnings, and as recently as 2019, Flair was required to pay $280,000 in back taxes. In addition to these struggles, Flair made poor investments, notably backing the failed “Ric Flair Finance” project, which was illegal and lost him a substantial sum.
Throughout his life, Flair’s financial troubles were exacerbated by his personal relationships. His five divorces further drained his wealth, forcing him to rely on loans and gifts from friends like Vince McMahon, who once lent him $800,000. Despite this support, Flair’s inability to manage his finances effectively meant he often faced lawsuits and defaults on loans.
In an attempt to revive his finances, Flair made comebacks, including his “last match” in 2022, where he earned $300,000. He’s also involved in new ventures, such as the Wooooo Energy drink and a cannabis line with Mike Tyson. However, recent incidents, like boasting about tipping $1,000 at a restaurant, continue to highlight his inconsistent financial decisions, revealing that despite his fame, Flair is still guiding money troubles well into his 70s.
