Barry Hearn has become a household name in the world of sports promotion, credited with transforming snooker, darts, and boxing into global entertainment spectacles. Known for his business acumen and innovative approach to sports management, Hearn has built a career that spans more than four decades. His financial achievements reflect not just his success in sports promotion but also his strategic ventures in real estate and media. As of 2025, Barry Hearn’s estimated net worth stands at $65 million, a testament to his lasting impact on the industry.
Early Life and Family Background
Barry Maurice William Hearn was born on June 19, 1948, in Dagenham, Essex, England. Now 77 years old, he grew up in a working-class family and attended Buckhurst Hill County High School. He later qualified as a chartered accountant, a skill that would prove invaluable in managing the financial side of his ventures. Hearn is married to Susan Hearn, and together they have two children: Eddie Hearn, who has taken over as chairman of Matchroom Sport, and daughter Katie Hearn, who has also been involved in the family business.
Breaking Into Boxing
Hearn’s entry into the sports business began in the late 1970s. His accounting background initially led him to property development, but his career trajectory changed when he stepped into boxing. One of his earliest successes was managing and promoting heavyweight boxer Frank Bruno, who became a national icon in the UK. Hearn’s ability to promote matches with flair and attract sponsorships quickly set him apart from others in the industry. His innovative approach allowed him to bring boxing to a broader audience through televised events, which not only elevated the sport but also boosted his growing wealth.
Expanding into Snooker
While boxing gave Barry his start, it was snooker that cemented his reputation as a top promoter. In the 1980s, he recognized the sport’s rising popularity in the UK and capitalized on it by signing talented players such as Steve Davis, who went on to dominate the snooker world under Hearn’s guidance.
He founded Matchroom Sport in 1982, which became the cornerstone of his business empire. Through Matchroom, Hearn revolutionized snooker by securing lucrative television deals and promoting high-profile tournaments. His efforts were instrumental in the establishment of the World Snooker Championship, a tournament that became a highlight of the sporting calendar and continues to draw global audiences.
The Professional Darts Corporation (PDC) Success
One of Barry Hearn’s most notable achievements was transforming the world of darts. In the early 1990s, he acquired control of the struggling Professional Darts Corporation (PDC). Under his leadership, darts evolved from a pub game into a professional global sport. With new sponsorships, televised tournaments, and a strong focus on entertainment, the PDC grew into a thriving organization, significantly adding to Hearn’s net worth. Today, darts enjoys prime-time television slots and attracts millions of viewers worldwide, all thanks to Hearn’s vision.
Diversification into Multiple Sports
Hearn didn’t stop at boxing, snooker, and darts. Over the years, he expanded into golf, fishing, and even ten-pin bowling, showing his knack for turning niche sports into mainstream spectacles. His company, Matchroom Sport, became one of the most influential sports promotion businesses in the world.
In addition to sports, Hearn has invested heavily in real estate and media projects, diversifying his portfolio. These ventures provided financial stability and consistent growth, safeguarding his fortune against fluctuations in the sporting world.
Net Worth and Financial Growth
As of 2025, Barry Hearn’s net worth is estimated to be around $65 million. His fortune stems primarily from Matchroom Sport, the Professional Darts Corporation, and snooker events, alongside his smart investments in property. His ability to create long-term revenue streams through television rights, global sponsorships, and live entertainment events has been central to his financial success.
Hearn’s wealth has also grown due to his strategic decision to hand leadership of Matchroom Sport to his son, Eddie Hearn, who has expanded the company further with high-profile boxing events featuring stars like Anthony Joshua and Canelo Álvarez. This move ensured the continuity of the Hearn legacy while keeping Barry involved in an advisory capacity.
Personal Life and Legacy
Despite his wealth and fame, Barry Hearn remains grounded. His marriage to Susan Hearn has been a steady anchor throughout his career, and his family continues to play a central role in his businesses. Beyond his entrepreneurial achievements, Hearn has also been recognized for his philanthropy, supporting local communities and youth sports initiatives across the UK.
In April 2021, Barry stepped down as chairman of Matchroom Sport, officially passing the torch to Eddie. However, he continues to serve as president, maintaining an active role in shaping the company’s future. His contributions have not only built his personal fortune but also reshaped the landscape of modern sports promotion.
