Grammy-winning Nigerian superstar Burna Boy has stunned fans worldwide with a bold claim: he says he is richer than football legends Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo combined. In a recent statement, Burna Boy declared,
“I’m richer than Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo combined. People may doubt it because they’re more famous, but that’s the truth. I’ve sold out stadiums on my own something they haven’t done as solo individuals. I own a multi-million dollar record label, while they’re signed to clubs!”
This jaw-dropping assertion has ignited fierce debates across social media platforms, with fans and critics weighing in on the credibility of the claim.
How Does Burna Boy’s Wealth Compare?
According to Forbes and other financial reports, Burna Boy’s net worth is estimated between $30 million and $40 million as of 2025, placing him among Africa’s richest musicians. His income streams include album sales, sold-out global tours, lucrative endorsement deals with brands like Pepsi, Spotify, and Hugo Boss, and ownership of a multi-million-dollar record label.
In contrast, Messi and Ronaldo, two of the highest-paid athletes globally, have career earnings reportedly exceeding hundreds of millions of dollars each, factoring in salaries, endorsements, and investments. However, Burna Boy’s claim focuses on his independent wealth and ownership stakes, highlighting his entrepreneurial ventures beyond music.
Burna Boy’s Unique Position
Burna Boy’s success is notable for breaking traditional barriers he has sold out stadiums worldwide as a solo artist, a feat he argues Messi and Ronaldo haven’t achieved individually in their sport. His ability to monetize streams, concerts, and brand partnerships has made him a formidable figure in the global entertainment industry, especially as an African artist.
Public Reaction
The claim has polarized opinions. Supporters praise Burna Boy’s confidence and business acumen, while skeptics point to the vast financial empires built by Messi and Ronaldo over their decades-long careers. Regardless, Burna Boy’s statement shines a spotlight on the growing financial power of African artists on the world stage.