William “Refrigerator” Perry is a name that NFL fans will never forget. As a dominant defensive tackle for the Chicago Bears, he became a household name, especially after his Super Bowl XX victory.
However, his financial journey after football has been filled with ups and downs.
Many wonder what happened to his wealth and how he managed his finances after retiring from the NFL. Despite earning millions during his career, he faced financial struggles, including IRS debt and the auctioning of his Super Bowl ring.
Let’s take a closer look at William Refrigerator Perry net worth, his NFL salary, and his financial highs and lows.
William Refrigerator Perry Quick Facts
| FACT | DETAIL |
|---|---|
| Real Name | William Anthony Perry |
| Popular Name | William “Refrigerator” Perry |
| Birth Date | December 16, 1962 |
| Age | 61 (as of 02/24/2025) |
| Birthplace | Aiken, South Carolina, USA |
| Nationality | American |
| Ethnicity | African American |
| Education | Clemson University |
| Marital Status | Divorced |
| Spouse | N/A |
| Children | 4 |
| Dating | N/A |
| Siblings | 11 (7 brothers, 4 sisters) |
| Parents | Hollie Perry Sr. (father, deceased), Inez Smith Perry (mother) |
| Height | 1.88 meters (6 ft 2 in) |
| Net Worth | $50,000 |
| Source of Wealth | NFL career, endorsements, media appearances |
What is the Net Worth of William Refrigerator Perry in 2025?
Despite being a Super Bowl champion, William Perry’s net worth has dwindled to approximately $50,000.
His financial decline can be attributed to IRS debt, health issues, and poor money management. Compared to other NFL legends, his current financial situation is significantly lower.
Related Athletes & Teams:
- Chicago Bears
- Philadelphia Eagles
- Mike Ditka
- Walter Payton
- Clemson Tigers
- Super Bowl XX Team
- Michael Dean Perry
- Buddy Ryan
- NFL Pension Fund
- WWE Hall of Fame
For more insights into the financial status of other successful athletes, check out our list of the most financially successful sports legends.
William Refrigerator Perry Wealth, Salary, and Financial Overview
How Much Did He Earn During His NFL Career?
During his 10-year NFL career, Perry earned a respectable salary, especially with the Chicago Bears and Philadelphia Eagles.
His contract as a first-round draft pick in the 1985 NFL Draft brought him significant earnings. However, exact salary figures are not publicly available.
Perry was a fan favorite, and his role in Super Bowl XX only increased his value. He even participated in endorsements and the famous “Super Bowl Shuffle” rap song with the Bears.
However, his weight struggles and inconsistent performances led to a decline in earnings over time.
What Were His Biggest Financial Struggles?
Despite earning millions, Perry faced severe financial difficulties:
- IRS Debt: Poor money management led to outstanding debts.
- Health Costs: Diagnosed with Guillain-Barré syndrome, medical bills drained his finances.
- Super Bowl Ring Auction: He had to sell his ring for financial relief.
- Lack of Post-NFL Income: Unlike other retired players, he had no major business ventures.
What Happened to His Super Bowl Ring and Other Assets?
Perry’s Super Bowl ring, which was the largest ever made (size 25), was auctioned for over $200,000. He initially sold it due to financial difficulties, but a young fan, Cliff Forrest, briefly returned it to him before it was later resold.
Other assets he lost over time included memorabilia, personal items, and real estate investments.
Did He Receive an NFL Pension and Retirement Benefits?
Yes, Perry receives an NFL pension, but it has not been enough to sustain his lifestyle. Unlike modern NFL players who have financial advisors, Perry did not manage his retirement funds effectively. His lack of investments led to financial instability.
How Did He Manage His Money After Retiring from Football?
After leaving the NFL, Perry attempted to maintain his income through:
- Boxing Matches: Participated in Celebrity Boxing against Manute Bol but lost.
- Wrestling: Competed in a WWF Battle Royal at WrestleMania 2.
- Reality TV & Commercials: Made guest appearances but didn’t generate significant income.
Unlike athletes who transition into coaching, broadcasting, or business, Perry struggled to maintain his finances.
Where Does He Live Now and What Is His Current Lifestyle?
Currently, Perry lives in a retirement home, as his financial struggles and health issues have limited his independence. He has mobility issues due to diabetes and weight gain (up to 425 lbs at one point). His brother, Michael Dean Perry, helps manage his affairs.
Despite his difficult circumstances, Perry remains a legendary figure in NFL history.
What Can Other Athletes Learn from His Financial Journey?
Perry’s story serves as a cautionary tale for athletes about financial management. Lessons include:
- Plan for Retirement: Save and invest wisely.
- Seek Financial Advisors: Don’t rely on short-term earnings.
- Manage Health Costs: Medical bills can drain wealth.
- Protect Assets: Avoid unnecessary sales of valuable memorabilia.
Many professional athletes have lost fortunes, but those who focus on smart financial planning can secure their future.
Conclusion
William “Refrigerator” Perry’s story is both inspiring and cautionary. While he was a Super Bowl champion, his financial struggles highlight the importance of money management for athletes.
What do you think about his financial journey? Share your thoughts in the comments! For more financial insights on celebrities and athletes, visit andomoney.com.
