The highest-earning Street Fighter IV pros helped transform competitive gaming into a professional spectacle, redefining what it meant to be a fighting game legend. Released in 2009, Street Fighter IV reinvigorated the genre, drawing in new players, expanding audiences, and reviving global tournaments. These competitions filled arenas with fans eager to witness the world’s best clash in nail-biting battles.The highest-earning Street Fighter IV pros not only showcased exceptional skill and innovation but also earned substantial prize money, highlighting the growth of esports.
Their legacies remain a benchmark of excellence, ensuring their names are celebrated across fighting game history.Alongside their fame and impact, the highest-earning Street Fighter IV pros cemented themselves as icons by pairing skill with financial success. Winning under the spotlight of international stages required more than talent—it demanded mental strength, consistency, and adaptation against fierce rivals.
These players turned tournaments into unforgettable showcases, proving that mastery of the game could deliver both respect and significant rewards. Beyond their victories, the highest-earning Street Fighter IV pros left behind a blueprint for professionalism and dedication that resonates with modern esports. Their influence inspires today’s competitors to pursue greatness while shaping the ever-evolving fighting game community.
Here Are The Top 10 Highest-Earning Street Fighter IV Pros Ever:
10. Taniguchi ‘Tokido’ Hajime – $25,325.02
Tokido is a veteran of fighting games, with a career spanning nearly every major title in the genre. His menacing focus during matches earned him the nickname “Tokido Murderface,” and his commitment to Akuma in Street Fighter IV defined much of his success. He consistently reached deep into tournaments, highlighted by his win at Canada Cup 2015, which brought him $6,600. While the very top prize pools eluded him, his long-standing excellence ensured he stayed in the competitive spotlight. For many fans, Tokido’s ability to adapt and dominate across multiple games makes him one of the most respected figures among the highest-earning Street Fighter IV pros.
Beyond prize money, Tokido’s legacy is tied to his fearless loyalty to Akuma, a character many feared but few mastered with the same finesse. His technical mastery, strategic mind, and consistent presence on the big stage solidified him as a legend in the scene. Transitioning into Street Fighter V, Tokido continued to thrive with Ryu, demonstrating once again his unparalleled adaptability. His journey embodies perseverance and skill, ensuring his place not only in financial rankings but also in esports history. This commitment and competitive spirit make him one of the most enduring names among the highest-earning Street Fighter IV pros.
| Player | Country | Main Character | Total Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tokido | Japan | Akuma | $25,325.02 |
9. Masato ‘Bonchan’ Takahashi – $25,549.54
Bonchan carved out his identity as the king of Sagat, demonstrating remarkable zoning ability and unmatched patience. Representing Red Bull, he became a household name through a mix of defensive mastery and pinpoint execution. His Evo 2014 performance, where he reached the Grand Finals before falling to Luffy, marked one of his greatest showings. That run cemented his status as a world-class player capable of hanging with the very best. These achievements propelled him into the financial spotlight, comfortably placing him among the highest-earning Street Fighter IV pros thanks to steady winnings and consistent performances.
Though his overall total is close to Tokido’s, Bonchan’s long-term consistency and high-profile finishes gave him an edge. His SoCal Regionals 2015 victory capped a brilliant competitive stretch that highlighted his discipline and character loyalty. While Sagat didn’t make the cut for Street Fighter V’s initial roster, Bonchan’s persistence with Ryu proved his resilience and ability to evolve with the game. His career highlights a dedication to excellence that resonates with fans across the world. For this reason, Bonchan remains one of the defining figures among the highest-earning Street Fighter IV pros, bridging competitive dominance with fan admiration.
| Player | Country | Main Character | Total Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bonchan | Japan | Sagat | $25,549.54 |
8. Bruce ‘GamerBee’ Hsiang – $34,343.22
GamerBee became beloved worldwide not just for his success, but also for his humility and underdog spirit. His choice of Adon, a rarely seen character at high levels, made him unique and inspiring to fans. While he didn’t secure as many first-place finishes as some of his peers, he was a constant presence in top eights, proving his competitive grit. His shining moment came at Evo 2015 when he reached the Grand Finals, securing a massive payout despite finishing second to Momochi. These results ensured his inclusion among the highest-earning Street Fighter IV pros, a testament to persistence over dominance.
Beyond trophies, GamerBee’s popularity stemmed from his personality and willingness to push unconventional character choices into the spotlight. His determination resonated with audiences who saw him as proof that heart and determination can compete with raw power or meta-driven picks. His $14,000 payday at Evo 2015 remains his most significant single tournament prize, cementing his place financially and historically. His legacy stands tall as a symbol of determination, ensuring his legacy within the ranks of the highest-earning Street Fighter IV pros, and inspiring future competitors from Taiwan and beyond.
| Player | Country | Main Character | Total Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|
| GamerBee | Taiwan | Adon | $34,343.22 |
7. Olivier ‘Luffy’ Hay – $39,435.38
Luffy shocked the competitive world in 2014 with his Evo victory, piloting Rose to triumph against the toughest international competition. His win was significant not only because of the character choice, but also because he played using a standard PlayStation controller instead of an arcade stick. That groundbreaking performance earned him $17,000, making up nearly half of his lifetime total earnings. His ability to rise above expectations and claim one of the most prestigious titles ensured his legacy among the highest-earning Street Fighter IV pros, despite fewer total tournament wins compared to other elites.
Luffy’s reputation didn’t rest solely on that one Evo win. He also posted strong showings at DreamHack events in 2014 and 2015, consistently proving that European players could compete with Japanese and American rivals. His dominance with Rose forced many players to rethink the character’s potential and highlighted the depth of Street Fighter IV’s roster. His European roots and innovative playstyle inspired a new generation of players on the continent. These consistent achievements placed him firmly among the highest-earning Street Fighter IV pros, reminding the community that unconventional approaches can redefine the competitive landscape.
| Player | Country | Main Character | Total Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|
| Luffy | France | Rose | $39,435.38 |
6. Ai ‘Fuudo’ Keita – $55,110.09
Fuudo’s background as a Virtua Fighter champion gave him an edge when transitioning to Street Fighter IV. His fundamentals and patience translated seamlessly, and he quickly made a name for himself with his Fei Long. At Evo 2011, Fuudo stunned the world by winning the championship, defeating titans like Latif and Poongko along the way. That victory earned him $10,000 and proved his adaptability as a competitor. His skill, calm demeanor, and technical precision kept him in the conversation as one of the highest-earning Street Fighter IV pros, despite not winning as frequently in later years.
Following his Evo triumph, Fuudo continued to compete at the highest level, with Topanga League 2 in 2012 netting him an even larger $12,000 prize. Although his first-place finishes became less frequent, his consistency at major tournaments kept his earnings climbing. Beyond the numbers, Fuudo’s dedication and mastery of Fei Long influenced how the character was played worldwide. His long-term stability and championship pedigree ensured his place among the highest-earning Street Fighter IV pros, marking him as a competitor whose calm and methodical style spoke volumes.
| Player | Country | Main Character | Total Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fuudo | Japan | Fei Long | $55,110.09 |
5. Kun Xian ‘Xian’ Ho – $63,685.38
Xian is widely regarded as one of the most creative and innovative players in the fighting game community. His breakout moment came at Evo 2013, where he shocked everyone by winning the tournament with Gen, a character thought to be among the weakest. His flawless run, which included victories over players like Tokido and Sako, cemented his reputation as a technical genius. This improbable triumph earned him massive respect and cemented his place among the highest-earning Street Fighter IV pros, as his prize totals steadily grew through consistent performances.
Beyond Evo, Xian collected titles at DreamHack Winter 2009 and other international tournaments, steadily adding to his prize pool. His inventive playstyle, combining creativity with deep technical skill, made him a fan favorite. By proving that even underrepresented characters could succeed at the highest level, he changed the way the community looked at roster diversity. His career highlights the importance of innovation and determination, solidifying his legacy as one of the highest-earning Street Fighter IV pros, and setting the stage for his experimental choices in Street Fighter V.
| Player | Country | Main Character | Total Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|
| Xian | Singapore | Gen | $63,685.38 |
4. Sun Woo ‘Infiltration’ Lee – $72,880.59
Infiltration’s dominance defined much of Street Fighter IV’s competitive history, as he burst onto the scene with little prior legacy in fighting games. Known for his deep character pool, he was able to switch strategies mid-match, leaving opponents unable to adapt. His Akuma in particular became one of the most feared characters on the circuit. In 2012, his victory at the Street Fighter 25th Anniversary competition earned him $25,000, his biggest single payday. His adaptability and execution cemented him among the highest-earning Street Fighter IV pros, while his rise symbolized the new generation of competitive fighters.
Infiltration didn’t just win a handful of titles—he collected a mountain of them, including Evo, DreamHack, CEO, and regional events across the globe. His career represents dominance across multiple years, proving his consistency and resilience at the highest level. With his ability to break down opponents’ strategies and capitalize on their mistakes, he became one of the most feared competitors. His financial success reflected his competitive success, ensuring his status as one of the highest-earning Street Fighter IV pros, while his transition into Street Fighter V confirmed his elite standing.
| Player | Country | Main Character | Total Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|
| Infiltration | Korea | Akuma | $72,880.59 |
3. Yusuke ‘Momochi’ Momochi – $92,683.60
Momochi’s technical precision and calm demeanor made him one of Japan’s most respected players. While he may not have collected as many overall tournament wins as others on this list, he excelled when the stakes were highest. His Capcom Cup 2014 win alone brought him approximately $30,000, one of the largest payouts of the era. His ability to maintain composure under pressure ensured his place among the highest-earning Street Fighter IV pros, as he consistently turned critical matches into opportunities for massive earnings.
Evo 2015 provided another career-defining moment, where Momochi once again stood atop the global stage with another $30,000 win. Combined with years of consistent results, his earnings climbed steadily. Beyond money, his reputation as a master of Ken elevated him in the community, proving that fundamentals and discipline could conquer even the fiercest competition. His careful, methodical approach cemented his legacy as one of the highest-earning Street Fighter IV pros, leaving a lasting impact on how Ken was played in competitive circles.
| Player | Country | Main Character | Total Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|
| Momochi | Japan | Ken | $92,683.60 |
2. Inoue ‘Kazunoko’ Ryota – $146,228.03
Kazunoko may not have been as consistently visible in top eights as Daigo or Tokido, but his few big wins made him a financial powerhouse. His defining moment was at Capcom Cup 2015, where he stunned Daigo in the Grand Finals to secure a massive $120,000 payday. That single win vaulted him instantly near the top of the highest-earning Street Fighter IV pros, proving that even sporadic success can translate into financial dominance if timed perfectly. His aggressive Yun style defined his approach, overwhelming opponents with relentless rushdown tactics.
Beyond that enormous victory, Kazunoko also found success at CEO 2015 and other regional events, showing flashes of brilliance that kept him relevant throughout the SFIV era. While he never won Evo, his achievements in other major competitions cemented his standing. His financial leap in 2015 placed him far above many veterans who had competed consistently for years. As a result, he remains one of the highest-earning Street Fighter IV pros, remembered for his explosive style and one of the largest single-tournament wins in fighting game history.
| Player | Country | Main Character | Total Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|
| Kazunoko | Japan | Yun | $146,228.03 |
1. Daigo Umehara – $171,677.30
Daigo Umehara, known as “The Beast,” is synonymous with competitive fighting games. His dominance stretches back to Street Fighter II, but his work during the Street Fighter IV era cemented him as a legend. He won back-to-back Evo titles in 2009 and 2010, adding to victories in Topanga League, DreamHack, Stunfest, and Canada Cup. His consistent excellence made him the face of the scene, both in terms of fame and prize money. These accomplishments ensured his status at the very top of the highest-earning Street Fighter IV pros, as he consistently raked in earnings across multiple years.
Perhaps Daigo’s most memorable payday came from his second-place finish at Capcom Cup 2015, where he earned approximately $60,000. In a selfless act, he donated that money to the Evo Scholarship Fund, underlining his reputation as a role model for the community. His blend of humility, respect, and icy competitive edge made him not just successful, but universally admired. For fans, Daigo became the embodiment of Ryu’s spirit—calm, precise, and relentless. With $171,677 in winnings, he sits firmly at the top of the highest-earning Street Fighter IV pros, a title befitting his legendary status.
| Player | Country | Main Character | Total Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|
| Daigo | Japan | Ryu | $171,677.30 |
The highest-earning Street Fighter IV pros left an indelible mark on the fighting game community, combining skill, strategy, and perseverance to dominate tournaments worldwide. Their performances not only earned massive prize money but also inspired a generation of players to pursue competitive gaming professionally. From Daigo’s legendary comebacks to Infiltration’s versatile mastery, these players set the standard for excellence in esports. Even as Street Fighter V and VI continue the competitive legacy, the achievements of the highest-earning Street Fighter IV pros remain a benchmark for success, highlighting the enduring impact of their dedication and legendary careers on the global scene.
FAQs
FAQ 1: Who is the highest earner among the Street Fighter IV pros?
The highest-earning Street Fighter IV pro is Daigo Umehara, known as “The Beast.” Among the highest-earning Street Fighter IV pros, he tops the list with more than $170,000 in winnings. His multiple EVO championships, consistent top finishes, and legendary matches solidified his reputation as both the highest earner and an icon in esports.
FAQ 2: How did Street Fighter IV change the esports scene?
Street Fighter IV transformed the competitive fighting game scene, creating a professional platform for tournaments and prize money. The rise of the highest-earning Street Fighter IV pros showcased skill, dedication, and consistency, inspiring future generations. Their dominance and success helped establish fighting games as a key part of the modern esports ecosystem.
FAQ 3: Do Street Fighter IV pros still compete in Street Fighter V and VI?
Many of the highest-earning Street Fighter IV pros successfully transitioned to Street Fighter V and VI. Players like Daigo, Tokido, and Infiltration continued their competitive careers, adapting to new mechanics and characters. Their presence bridges the legacy of SFIV with newer titles while inspiring and mentoring the next generation of esports talent.
