9. Wilfred Benitez
Record: 53-8-1 (31 KOs)
Youngest world champion in boxing history
Estimated Career Earnings: $3-6 million
A sick and sad tale of Benitez, who still holds the distinction the youngest boxing champion ever. That’s exactly what Wilfred Benitez did when he won a split decision over 30-year-old Antonio Cervantes for the WBA light welterweight championship. He may be best known for the classic clash with rising star Sugar Ray Leonard. Today, after years of punishment in the ring, Benitez is subsists on government handouts and is confined to a wheelchair to survive. His sister and caregiver says Benitez’ father swindled most of his son’s hard-earned loot on conspicuous consumption: rides, women, and big gifts.
