35 Facts About Freeway Rick Ross

Early Life and Background

Freeway Rick Ross's story begins in a small town in Texas and takes a dramatic turn when his family moves to Los Angeles. His early years set the stage for the complex life he would lead.

1. Freeway Rick Ross was born Ricky Donnell Ross on January 26, 1960, in Troup, Texas.
2. His family relocated to South Central Los Angeles when he was just three years old.
3. The nickname "Freeway" was inspired by the 110 Freeway that ran near his home.

Struggles and Discoveries

Growing up in poverty, Ross showed an early knack for making money but also faced significant challenges. His journey through these formative years is marked by both ambition and hardship.

4. Ross mowed lawns, sold lemonade, and pumped gas to earn a living.
5. He also ran errands for pimps in his neighborhood, showing early signs of trouble.
6. Despite his rough start, Ross discovered a talent for tennis.

Tennis and Education

Tennis became a significant part of Ross's life, offering him a potential escape from his circumstances. However, his lack of education presented a major obstacle.

7. In high school, he was good enough to attract the attention of a recruiter at Cal State Long Beach.
8. His hope for a tennis scholarship faded when coaches learned he couldn’t read.
9. This lack of education would later become a significant challenge in his life.

Entry into the Drug Trade

Ross's entry into the drug trade was driven by a desire to make money. His initial foray into this world quickly escalated into something much larger.

10. Ross bought cocaine for the first time for $50 and sold it for $100.
11. His meeting with Oscar Danilo Blandón, a Nicaraguan-born drug trafficker, was pivotal.
12. Blandón provided Ross with seemingly unlimited amounts of cocaine.

Building a Drug Empire

By his early twenties, Ross had built a massive drug empire, capitalizing on the crack epidemic of the 1980s. His operation was both vast and highly profitable.

13. By the age of 23, Ross had become a millionaire.
14. His empire equated to millions of dollars in profit daily.
15. The 1980s crack epidemic played a significant role in his success.

Legal Troubles and Imprisonment

Ross's success in the drug trade eventually led to his downfall. His legal troubles culminated in a lengthy prison sentence, but this period also marked the beginning of his transformation.

16. Ross was sentenced to life in prison for his involvement in the cocaine trade.
17. In 2009, he was released on appeal after serving 20 years.
18. While in prison, Ross began to reinvent himself.

Reinvention and Activism

Since his release, Ross has taken on new roles as an author, actor, and prison reform activist. His efforts have focused on positive change and redemption.

19. Ross published his autobiography, "Freeway Rick Ross: The Untold Autobiography."
20. He worked on documentaries like "Freeway: Crack in the System."
21. Ross has been involved in a legal battle with Miami rapper Rick Ross over the use of his name.

Philanthropy and Community Impact

Despite his past, Ross has made significant contributions to his community. His philanthropic efforts aim to inspire and support those from similar backgrounds.

22. Ross has spoken at schools, advocating for positive change and redemption.
23. He has provided scholarships to high school students.
24. Ross hosts turkey drives during Thanksgiving.

Business Ventures and Vegan Lifestyle

Ross's entrepreneurial spirit has led him to various business ventures, including the legal cannabis industry. His commitment to a vegan lifestyle is also a significant part of his transformation.

25. Ross founded his own company, LA Kingpin, in the cannabis industry.
26. He has been a vegan for 31 years, believing it contributes to his well-being.
27. Ross trains his kids in tennis, reflecting his dedication to family and sport.

Education and Literacy Advocacy

Ross's struggle with illiteracy has turned into a passion for advocating education and literacy. His experiences have shaped his views on the importance of learning.

28. Ross's illiteracy was a significant challenge throughout his life.
29. Reading books while in prison helped him develop a multimillionaire mindset.
30. He now advocates for education and literacy, believing it is crucial for personal growth.

Media Appearances and Legacy

Ross's story has been featured in various media, helping to humanize him and provide a deeper understanding of his transformation. His legacy continues to inspire many.

31. Ross has appeared in documentaries like "Freeway: Crack in the System."
32. His autobiography and other writings provide a detailed account of his life.
33. The TV series "Snowfall" was inspired by his life.

Health and Personal Growth

Ross has faced health challenges but has used these experiences to prioritize his well-being. His commitment to personal growth is evident in his lifestyle choices.

34. Ross faced seizures in 2011, leading him to adopt a healthier lifestyle.
35. His commitment to health reflects his dedication to personal growth and overall well-being.

Rick Ross: A Story of Transformation

Freeway Rick Ross's life is a wild ride from poverty to a $900 million drug empire, then to prison, and finally to redemption. Born in Texas, raised in South Central LA, he built his empire during the 1980s crack epidemic. Meeting Oscar Danilo Blandón was a game-changer, providing him with endless cocaine supplies. Legal troubles caught up, landing him a life sentence, but he got out after 20 years. Post-prison, Ross reinvented himself as an author, actor, and prison reform activist. His autobiography and documentaries share his journey. Now, he's a legal cannabis entrepreneur, vegan, and education advocate. His story, marked by highs and lows, shows the power of change and redemption. Ross's legacy inspires many, proving that even the darkest past can lead to a brighter future.