Ric Flair, born Richard Morgan Fliehr, is one of the most iconic figures in professional wrestling history. Known for his flamboyant style, unmatched charisma, and legendary rivalries, “The Nature Boy” has left an indelible mark on the wrestling world. Let’s explore his life, career, and legacy in details.
Ric Flair’s Biography
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Richard Morgan Fliehr |
| Nickname | The Nature Boy |
| Born | February 25, 1949, in Memphis, Tennessee |
| Age | 75 |
| Religion | Christian |
| Nationality | American |
| Height | 6 ft 1 in (185 cm) |
| Turned Pro | 1972 |
| Net Worth | Estimated at $500,000 |
| Salary | $35,000 per month (from endorsements and WWE Legends contract) |
| Spouse | Wendy Barlow (married since 2018) |
| Relationship Status | Married |
| Children | 4 children: Charlotte Flair (Ashley), David Flair, Megan Fliehr, Reid Flair (deceased) |
| Instagram Profile | @ricflairnatureboy |
Early Career
Ric Flair began his wrestling journey in 1972 after training under Verne Gagne. His early career was marked by a plane crash in 1975 that broke his back in 3 places.
Despite doctors predicting he would never wrestle again, Flair made a miraculous recovery and returned to the ring just six months later. This resilience set the tone for his illustrious career.
Professional Career
Ric Flair’s professional wrestling career spans over 5 decades. He gained fame in the National Wrestling Alliance (NWA), where he became a 10-time NWA World Heavyweight Champion.
His iconic “Nature Boy” persona, complete with flashy robes and catchphrases like “Woooo!”, made him a fan favorite. Flair’s career highlights include legendary rivalries with Ricky Steamboat, Dusty Rhodes, and Sting.
He is recognized as a 16-time world champion by WWE (though some sources claim up to 25 reigns). Flair also headlined major events like Starrcade and WrestleMania. In 1992, he won the Royal Rumble to claim the WWF Championship
Flair retired multiple times but always returned for special matches. His official last match was in 2022, where he teamed with Andrade El Idolo to defeat Jay Lethal and Jeff Jarrett.
Wife
Ric Flair has been married 5 times. His first marriage to Leslie Goodman lasted from 1971 to 1983 and produced 2 children: David and Megan.
His second marriage to Elizabeth Harrell (1983–2006) brought 2 more children: Charlotte (Ashley), now a WWE superstar, and Reid, who tragically passed away in 2013.
Flair’s subsequent marriages were shorter-lived: Tiffany VanDemark (2006–2009), Jackie Beems (2009–2014), and Wendy Barlow (2018–2024).
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Wendy Barlow provided significant support during Flair’s health crises but announced their separation in September 2024.
Ric Flair is single. Flair is a devoted father to his 4 children—David, Megan, Charlotte, and Reid—and remains close to them despite past family challenges.
Ric Flair’s Net Worth Details
Ric Flair’s net worth is estimated to be $500,000 as of 2025. Despite earning millions during his peak years, financial mismanagement and lavish spending significantly reduced his wealth.
Fight Purses
| Match/Event | Year | Earnings ($) |
|---|---|---|
| Starrcade vs Dusty Rhodes | 1985 | $500,000 |
| WrestleMania VIII vs Randy Savage | 1992 | $750,000 |
| Royal Rumble Victory | 1992 | $1 million |
| WrestleMania XXIV vs Shawn Michaels (Retirement Match) | 2008 | $1 million |
Endorsements
Ric Flair has capitalized on his fame through numerous endorsements and business ventures:
- Adidas: Custom “Air Flairs” sneakers.
- Wooooo! Energy Drink: A mushroom-based energy drink.
- Cannabis Line: Collaboration with Mike Tyson.
- TickPick: Ticketing platform partnership.
- BYB Brands: Spokesperson for protein power shots.
Career Stats
| Opponent | Event/Promotion | Result | Stipulation/Outcome |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ricky Steamboat | NWA Clash of Champions 1989 Trilogy | Mixed Results | Considered the greatest trilogy in wrestling history |
| Dusty Rhodes | Starrcade (Multiple Years) | Wins/Losses | Iconic battles for the NWA World Title |
| Sting | Clash of Champions (1988) | Draw | Elevated Sting to main-event status |
| Shawn Michaels | WrestleMania XXIV | Loss | Retirement Match |
FAQs
1. Who is Ric Flair?
Ric Flair, born Richard Morgan Fliehr on February 25, 1949, is a retired professional wrestler widely regarded as one of the greatest in wrestling history. Known as “The Nature Boy,” he had a career spanning over 50 years, winning numerous championships and headlining major events like WrestleMania and Starrcade.
2. How many world championships has Ric Flair won?
Ric Flair is officially recognized as a 16-time world heavyweight champion by WWE, though some sources claim he has won up to 25 titles. These include reigns in the NWA, WCW, and WWF/WWE, making him one of the most decorated wrestlers in history.
3. What is Ric Flair’s signature move?
Ric Flair’s signature finishing move is the Figure Four Leglock. This iconic submission hold targets an opponent’s legs and has become one of the most recognized moves in wrestling history due to Flair’s mastery.
4. What are Ric Flair’s most notable achievements?
Flair is a two-time WWE Hall of Fame inductee (2008 individually and 2012 with The Four Horsemen), a six-time PWI Wrestler of the Year, and an eight-time Wrestling Observer Newsletter Wrestler of the Year. He was also the first to win the WWF Championship in a Royal Rumble match (1992).
5. Where does Ric Flair rank among wrestling legends?
Ric Flair is universally considered one of the greatest wrestlers of all time. His charisma, in-ring ability, and influence on professional wrestling have earned him legendary status among fans and peers alike.
6. What is Ric Flair’s net worth?
Ric Flair’s estimated net worth is $500,000. Despite earning millions during his career, financial struggles and a lavish lifestyle have significantly impacted his wealth over time.
7. How many times has Ric Flair been married?
Ric Flair has been married five times. His most recent marriage to Wendy Barlow ended amicably in 2024 after six years together. His previous marriages include Leslie Goodman, Elizabeth Harrell, Tiffany VanDemark, and Jackie Beems.
8. Did Ric Flair ever retire from wrestling?
Ric Flair officially retired multiple times but continued making appearances in various promotions. His last match occurred in July 2022 when he teamed with Andrade El Idolo against Jeff Jarrett and Jay Lethal. Despite announcing retirement, he later stated he regretted calling it his final match.
9. What controversies has Ric Flair faced?
Flair has faced several controversies, including allegations of sexual misconduct and financial issues. He also drew criticism for his behavior outside the ring, such as incidents involving public intoxication and inappropriate comments during AEW appearances.
10. What legacy does Ric Flair leave behind?
Ric Flair’s legacy includes being a pioneer of modern professional wrestling with unmatched charisma and skill. His influence extends beyond the ring as a cultural icon whose “Woooo!” catchphrase remains synonymous with wrestling entertainment worldwide.
