Former New York Mayor and renowned attorney Rudy Giuliani recently suffered a major blow in a defamation case as a jury ruled that he must pay $148 million in damages to two Georgia election workers, Ruby Freeman and her daughter, Wandrea "Shaye" Moss. The verdict came after Giuliani had already been found liable for several defamation claims against them.

The jury, consisting of eight Washington, D.C. residents, awarded Freeman $16.2 million and Moss $17 million in compensatory damages. Additionally, they were each granted $20 million for emotional distress, along with an extra $75 million in punitive damages. The total amount demanded by the plaintiffs' attorneys was $24 million for each of them.

Giuliani, who once held the title of "America's mayor" for his leadership in the aftermath of the 9/11 terrorist attacks, expressed concerns over the financial implications of the ruling. His attorney had argued that paying the requested damages would have a devastating impact on his financial stability, potentially putting an end to him financially.

Giuliani's current net worth, estimated to be less than $50 million, has raised doubts about his ability to fulfill the substantial monetary obligations imposed by the verdict. Approximately 15 years ago, his net worth stood at over $50 million, which included $15 million from his business ventures, particularly his work with lobbying firm Giuliani Partners.

However, Giuliani's financial situation has been significantly affected by costly lawsuits and a third divorce, leading to severe expenses. To address the pressing need for cash, Giuliani resorted to selling commemorative 9/11 shirts for $911 and endorsing sandals sold by Donald Trump ally Mike Lindell. He also attempted to generate income through personalized video messages on the platform Cameo, selling them for $325 each, although his availability on the platform has since been discontinued.

Reports indicate that Giuliani currently owes approximately $3 million in legal fees. While he earns around $400,000 per year from a radio show and receives some income from a podcast, these sources are insufficient to cover his debts, as revealed by The New York Times. In fact, earlier this year, Giuliani's long-term attorney filed a lawsuit against him, alleging that the former mayor owes nearly $1.4 million in legal fees.

In an effort to alleviate his financial burden, Giuliani listed his Manhattan apartment for sale, initially priced at $6.5 million. However, as of mid-December, the property remains unsold, according to listings from Sotheby's. The luxury co-op boasts three bedrooms, three bathrooms, a library with a wood-burning fireplace, and a butler's pantry.

As the case against him progresses, the question remains as to how much Giuliani can truly afford to pay. His attorney previously argued for smaller damages than what Moss and Freeman sought, urging the jury to recognize the accomplishments of "this great man."

Giuliani's legal battles and the substantial financial strains they have introduced present a newfound challenge for the former mayor. With the $148 million defamation case verdict against him, the road ahead appears uncertain for Giuliani, both legally and financially.