Anthony Joshua pocketed £15m for his win over Wladimir Klitschko and could be in line for even more if the pair step into the ring for a rematch.
The Brit with Nigerian descendant produced a stunning performance to climb off the canvas and stop the legendary Ukrainian in the 11th round to claim the biggest victory of his young career.
The payday was by far the biggest of the 2012 Olympic champion’s career thus far as he cemented his place at the very top of the sport.
Joshua has a number of options available to him now with WBC champion Deontay Wilder and New Zealander Joseph Parker possibly on the horizon while a rematch with Klitschko, potentially in the US, could also be on the cards.
Joshua, who now boasts a perfect 19-0 record, says he will cherish the win over Klitschko but insists it still doesn’t top winning gold in London.
“The memories, the experiences last forever, and when it’s all said and done these things (the belts) slowly disappear,” Joshua added. “The experience I’ve gained is more important than the belts.
“Sugar Ray Leonard: all the skill, ability he had, said there are times when you have to show character and go to the trenches. Without that you’ll never go on and do great things in the sport.
“I never want to be in those type of fights, but if I have to be I don’t want to crumble.”
Asked if it topped winning Olympic gold, he said: “No. It is what it is: there’s one winner and one loser.
“I’m a champion outside the ring, first and foremost. The fighting is fun. I don’t box just for the belt, for the money, and I just enjoy it, the discipline.
