What Is Dory Funk Jr.’s Net Worth and How Wrestling Built His Legacy?
What is Dory Funk Jr.’s net worth, and how did he become one of the most respected and financially successful figures in the world of professional wrestling? As a true legend of the ring, Dory Funk Jr. has spent over six decades in the business—competing, training, promoting, and preserving the old-school traditions that helped shape wrestling as we know it today. His influence spans from the NWA rings of the 1960s to modern-day wrestling schools where future stars continue to benefit from his teachings.
With such a long and storied career, it’s no surprise that his financial legacy is just as impressive as his wrestling credentials.
Who Is Dory Funk Jr.?
Born on February 3, 1941, in Amarillo, Texas, Dory Funk Jr. grew up surrounded by wrestling royalty. He is the son of Dory Funk Sr., a respected promoter and wrestler in the Southwest territory, and the older brother of the late Terry Funk, another icon in the wrestling world. From an early age, Dory was immersed in the business—not just as a performer, but as someone who understood the ins and outs of what made wrestling tick.
Dory made his professional debut in 1963 and rose quickly through the ranks thanks to his mat-based style, incredible stamina, and disciplined approach to the sport. His defining moment came in 1969 when he defeated Gene Kiniski to become the NWA World Heavyweight Champion. He held the title for over four years, making him one of the longest-reigning champions in NWA history.
Throughout his career, Dory wrestled for major promotions across the U.S. and internationally. He had a huge impact in Japan, particularly with All Japan Pro Wrestling, where he and his brother Terry were beloved by fans and regarded as wrestling royalty. His clean-cut, no-nonsense style made him a standout technician in an era filled with brawlers and larger-than-life characters.
Today, Dory Funk Jr. is celebrated not only for his accomplishments in the ring but for his enduring influence on the next generation of wrestlers.
Dory Funk Jr.’s Net Worth in 2025
As of 2025, Dory Funk Jr.’s net worth is estimated to be between $1 million and $2 million. His wealth has been built gradually over decades in the wrestling business, fueled by earnings from his in-ring performances, appearances, training academy, and continued relevance in the wrestling community.
While he may not have reached the mainstream media earnings of later WWE superstars, Dory built a solid and sustainable career through consistency, loyalty to the craft, and business savvy. His value in the industry goes far beyond just match payouts—he has earned income from wrestling schools, autograph signings, speaking engagements, and royalties from media featuring his name and likeness.
This steady accumulation of wealth, combined with a modest and disciplined lifestyle, has allowed Dory to remain financially secure long after his days of active competition.
How Dory Funk Jr. Made His Money
In-Ring Career and Championships
Dory Funk Jr. was one of the highest-paid wrestlers of his era, especially during his reign as NWA World Heavyweight Champion. From 1969 to 1973, he defended the title all over the world, often multiple times a week, collecting large payouts from territories eager to host a world championship match. His booking fees, which were among the highest at the time, contributed significantly to his early financial success.
In addition to his time in the NWA, Dory also competed in the WWF (now WWE), ECW, and WCW at various points, earning supplemental income through these appearances. His extensive work in Japan also brought in substantial paydays, as All Japan Pro Wrestling was known for treating its foreign talent well. His style fit perfectly with the Japanese audience’s appreciation for technical skill, making him a top draw overseas.
Wrestling Promotions and Appearances
Even after retiring from full-time competition, Dory Funk Jr. continued to earn through appearances on legends shows, fan conventions, and occasional matches. Wrestling fans still pay to meet him at events like WrestleCon and Cauliflower Alley Club reunions, and promoters often feature him in legends segments to honor his legacy.
He’s also received royalties from wrestling compilations, DVD releases, and digital content that includes his matches and likeness. WWE, which owns a large portion of NWA’s tape library, has featured Dory in several network specials and documentaries, helping maintain a revenue stream tied to his historical significance.
Funking Conservatory Wrestling School
One of Dory Funk Jr.’s most important contributions to the industry—and a major income source—is his wrestling school, the Funking Conservatory, based in Ocala, Florida. Established in the late 1990s, this academy has trained numerous future wrestling stars and offers programs for aspiring wrestlers, referees, and managers.
Students pay tuition to train under Dory’s direct guidance, and the school also holds shows that generate ticket sales and local sponsorships. His role as both a coach and promoter ensures that his income continues even in semi-retirement. The success of his students further reinforces the school’s reputation and allows for long-term sustainability.
Media, Books, and Merchandising
While Dory Funk Jr. hasn’t released a tell-all book like many of his peers, his story has been featured in countless wrestling documentaries, articles, and interviews. He has also benefited from merchandising—T-shirts, posters, and collectibles that bear the Funk family name.
Video games, wrestling card sets, and memorabilia that include his likeness have added small but steady contributions to his net worth. Given the nostalgic appeal of wrestlers from the territory days, collectors and fans still seek out Dory Funk Jr. merchandise, especially items signed by the man himself.
Dory Funk Jr.’s Lifestyle and Legacy
Dory Funk Jr. lives a relatively modest lifestyle, especially when compared to the flashiness often associated with wrestling. He’s remained grounded, focusing more on teaching and mentoring than on chasing the limelight. His quiet dedication to the sport and its traditions has earned him immense respect from both fans and peers.
His legacy lives on through the wrestlers he’s trained, the matches he’s wrestled, and the family name he helped elevate. From technical wrestling clinics to his long NWA title reign, Dory remains one of the purest examples of what professional wrestling once was—and what it can still be when done with passion and precision.
What’s Next for Dory Funk Jr.?
Now in his 80s, Dory Funk Jr. continues to make appearances and contribute to the industry he loves. While he’s no longer competing, he still trains students and participates in special events and conventions. His school continues to shape the next generation, and his legacy as a wrestler, mentor, and ambassador for the sport is firmly cemented.
As fans continue to rediscover his matches and documentaries explore the golden age of wrestling, Dory’s story remains timeless. His financial future is secure, and his influence is everlasting. If you’re looking at Dory Funk Jr.’s net worth, you’re really looking at a man who invested in wrestling not just as a business—but as a lifelong calling. And that kind of wealth goes far beyond the numbers.
Featured image source: Pinterest
