Former NFL star Chad “Ochocinco” Johnson considers himself a frugal businessman. He was so frugal, in actual fact, that he spent the primary two years of his profession residing at no cost within the Cincinnati Bengals’ stadium.
“Why are you telling me to lease a home or purchase a home when every little thing I would like is true on the facility?” Johnson stated not too long ago on the Membership Shay Shay podcast, hosted by Shannon Sharpe. “Showers, cafeteria, TV, sofa, gaming system. What is the level? I used to be so locked in. It wasn’t about having my very own area.”
Johnson would have stayed longer if the Bengals’ head coach on the time, Marvin Lewis, did not kick him out.
“He stated it is time to be accountable, unfold your wings, and get your personal place,” the previous large receiver stated.
Johnson moved right into a one-bedroom simply down the street.
Associated: An NFL Rookie Scores a $514,000 Jackpot in Las Vegas
Flying Spirit Airways and carrying pretend jewellery
Johnson, 45, performed within the NFL from 2001 to 2011, making the Professional Bowl six occasions. However regardless of his extraordinary success each as a participant and financially, he stated he saved 83% of his wage by residing on a funds.
Whereas different gamers have been shopping for costly jewellery and garments, Johnson admitted he wore pretend jewellery.
“Why am I shopping for a $50,000 watch?” he stated. “Time is free.”
Johnson stated it was doing the little issues that saved him cash. As a substitute of flying top quality or chartering a personal jet, he flew on funds airways like Spirit. He additionally educated himself about cash, interning at Morgan Stanley.
Sharpe requested Johnson what recommendation he would give to different gamers within the league, particularly rookies.
“Do not attempt to stay a way of life you could’t afford,” he stated. “The extra you make, the extra you spend in case you have no self-discipline or construction. However folks ain’t going to hear as a result of we’re caught up in trying a sure method and residing a sure method, attempting to appease others who do not actually care about you, simply to say, ‘I received it.’ I’ve received it, too, however I’ve had it for nearly 30 years.”