Chad Dawson, known as “Bad Chad” in the boxing world, is a former professional boxer who made a significant impact in the light heavyweight division.
Throughout his career, Dawson held multiple world championships and was considered one of the top boxers in his weight class.
This article will teach you about Chad Dawson’s net worth, salary, career earnings, contract, stats, wife, career overview, and more.
Chad Dawson’s Biography
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Chad Phillip Dawson |
| Nickname | “Bad Chad” |
| Born | July 13, 1982 |
| Age | 41 |
| College | N/A |
| Religion | Christian |
| Nationality | American |
| Height | 6 ft 1 in (185 cm) |
| Net Worth | Estimated $3 million (2024) |
| Salary | Varied per fight |
| Wife | Crystal Dawson |
| Relationship Status | Married |
| Instagram Profile | @oghbadchad |
Early Career
Chad Dawson began his boxing journey at a young age, following in the footsteps of his father, who was also a boxer.
He started training seriously in his teens and quickly showed promise as an amateur. Dawson compiled an impressive amateur record of 67-13 and won several regional tournaments.
His natural talent and dedication to the sport set the stage for a successful transition to the professional ranks.
Professional Career
Dawson made his professional debut on August 18, 2001, at 19. He quickly rose through the ranks, showcasing his skills and athleticism in the light heavyweight division.
His big break came in 2007 when he defeated Tomasz Adamek to win the WBC light heavyweight title. This victory established Dawson as a force to be reckoned with in the division.
Throughout his career, Dawson faced some of the best fighters in his weight class, including Antonio Tarver, Bernard Hopkins, and Glen Johnson.
Dawson’s career peaked in the late 2000s and early 2010s when he held multiple world titles and was considered one of the top pound-for-pound boxers in the world.
Wife
Chad Dawson is married to Crystal Dawson. The couple has been together for many years and has 4 children together.
Dawson has often credited his family for supporting and motivating him throughout his boxing career.
Chad Dawson’s Net Worth Details
Chad Dawson’s net worth is estimated to be $3 million as of 2025.
Fight Purses
| Fight | Opponent | Purse |
|---|---|---|
| October 15, 2011 | Bernard Hopkins | $800,000 |
| April 28, 2012 | Bernard Hopkins (rematch) | $1,000,000 |
| September 8, 2012 | Andre Ward | $600,000 |
| June 8, 2013 | Adonis Stevenson | $1,000,000 |
Endorsements
He did have some sponsorship agreements during his career:
- Everlast: Boxing equipment and apparel.
- HBO: Featured in promotional materials for his fights on the network.
- Local businesses in his hometown of New Haven, Connecticut.
Boxing Records
Chad Dawson’s professional boxing record includes several notable opponents:
| Opponent | Result | Date |
|---|---|---|
| Tomasz Adamek | Win (UD) | February 3, 2007 |
| Glen Johnson | Win (UD) | April 12, 2008 |
| Antonio Tarver | Win (UD) | October 11, 2008 |
| Jean Pascal | Loss (TD) | August 14, 2010 |
| Bernard Hopkins | Win (MD) | April 28, 2012 |
| Andre Ward | Loss (TKO) | September 8, 2012 |
| Adonis Stevenson | Loss (TKO) | June 8, 2013 |
FAQs
1. What was Chad Dawson’s most significant achievement in boxing?
Chad Dawson’s most significant achievement was winning multiple world championships in the light heavyweight division, including the WBC, IBF, and Ring magazine titles.
2. How did Chad Dawson earn the nickname “Bad Chad”?
The nickname “Bad Chad” was likely given to Dawson early in his career to create a marketable persona. It’s a play on his name and suggests a tough, competitive nature in the ring.
3. Who was Chad Dawson’s toughest opponent?
Many consider Bernard Hopkins to be Dawson’s toughest opponent. Their fights were closely contested, with Dawson ultimately winning their rematch by majority decision.
4. Did Chad Dawson ever compete in the Olympics?
Chad Dawson did not compete in the Olympics. He turned professional at a young age instead of pursuing an Olympic career.
5. What was Chad Dawson’s fighting style?
Dawson was known for his technical skills, speed, and ability to outbox opponents. He was a southpaw (left-handed) fighter with good defensive skills and ring IQ.
6. How many weight classes did Chad Dawson compete in?
While Dawson primarily competed as a light heavyweight, he did move down to super middleweight for his fight against Andre Ward in 2012.
7. What was Chad Dawson’s most controversial fight?
The first fight between Dawson and Bernard Hopkins in 2011 ended controversially when Hopkins was unable to continue after being lifted and pushed by Dawson, resulting in a shoulder injury.
8. Has Chad Dawson been involved in boxing since his retirement?
While Dawson has not been prominently involved in boxing since his retirement, he has occasionally commented on the sport and current fighters through social media.
9. What impact did Chad Dawson have on boxing in his prime?
During his prime, Dawson was considered one of the best light heavyweights in the world and was ranked among the top pound-for-pound boxers. He helped bring attention to the light heavyweight division in the late 2000s and early 2010s.
10. Did Chad Dawson ever fight outside of the United States?
Yes, Dawson fought outside the United States on a few occasions. Most notably, he fought Jean Pascal in Montreal, Canada, in 2010.





