What was Hector 'Macho' Camacho's Net Worth?
Hector 'Macho' Camacho was a renowned Puerto Rican boxer with a net worth of $100,000 at the time of his passing on November 24, 2012. His vibrant boxing career, spanning from 1980 to 2010, earned him acclaim for his speed and flamboyant style. Camacho was a world champion in three distinct weight classes.
Early Life
Hector Luis Camacho Matias was born on May 24, 1962, in Bayamon, Puerto Rico. His family moved to Spanish Harlem in New York during his early years. Despite frequent troubles during his youth, Camacho channeled his energy into boxing and karate.
As an amateur, Camacho's talent was evident. He won the 1978 New York Golden Gloves Flyweight Sub-Novice Championship, followed by the New York Golden Gloves Bantamweight Open Championships in 1979 and 1980. He achieved further recognition as the Intercity Golden Gloves Champion in 1979 (119 lbs) and 1980 (125 lbs). After 100 amateur bouts, with 96 wins and four losses, Hector turned professional.
Boxing Career
Hector Camacho swiftly climbed the professional ranks, becoming a world champion in three weight divisions. He held the WBC super featherweight title (1983-1984), the WBC lightweight title (1985-1987), and the WBO junior welterweight title twice (1989-1992).
Throughout his career, Camacho faced notable opponents. He triumphed over Roberto Duran twice and delivered a knockout blow to Sugar Ray Leonard, leading to Leonard's retirement. Other memorable opponents included Julio Cesar Chavez, Oscar De La Hoya, and Felix Trinidad.
Camacho concluded his illustrious boxing journey with 88 bouts, boasting 79 victories, including 38 by knockout, six losses, and three draws.
Al Bello / Allsport
Personal Life
Hector Camacho was a father to four sons. His eldest son was from an early relationship, while his three younger sons, Justin, Christian, and Tyler, were from his marriage to Amy Torres in 1991. The marriage ended in divorce in 2001, but both Hector Jr. and Tyler chose to follow their father into boxing.
Camacho got engaged to Shelly Salemassi in 2003, and they remained together for 15 years, although they never married.
Camacho's popularity extended beyond the boxing ring as he appeared on several Spanish reality TV shows, including 'Mira Quien Baila' and 'El Gordo y La Flaca,' where he had a segment called 'Macho News.'
Controversy & Death
Hector Camacho's life was marred by legal issues and controversies, including drug abuse and criminal charges. In 2005, he pleaded guilty to burglary. In 2011, he survived a carjacking attempt where he was shot at three times. In 2012, he faced trial in Florida on physical abuse charges by one of his sons.
On November 20, 2012, Camacho was shot outside a bar in Bayamon while sitting in a car; his childhood friend was killed in the incident. He was declared brain dead four days later, and per his mother's request, he was taken off life support.
