George Foreman, the legendary boxer who once ruled the heavyweight division, passed away at 76. Known for his immense power and presence in the ring, Foreman originally captured the heavyweight title in his 20s but lost it to Muhammad Ali in the iconic “Rumble in the Jungle.” Years later, at 45, he achieved a historic victory by defeating Michael Moorer to become the oldest heavyweight champion, a feat that solidified his legacy.
Foreman’s family shared the news of his death online without providing details about the cause or location of his passing. They highlighted his life not only as a double-time heavyweight champion and Olympic gold medalist but also as a preacher, family man, and philanthropist. “He lived with unwavering faith and humility,” they remarked, noting his tireless efforts to uphold his reputation.
Born in Texas, Foreman’s journey began in the midst of humble beginnings. Despite a challenging adolescence involving petty crime, he revamped his life through boxing, going on to capture Olympic gold in 1968. In 1973, he ascended to the heavyweight throne after a decisive victory against Joe Frazier. However, his domination came to a halt a year later when Ali used strategic brilliance to claim victory in their famed clash.
After stepping away from boxing for over a decade, Foreman experienced a spiritual renewal before reentering the ring in his late 30s. He quickly amassed victories, culminating in a momentous win against Moorer that marked the longest interval between heavyweight title reigns. His comeback story inspired many, and he continued to be an influential figure until retiring at the age of 48 with an outstanding record of 76 wins, including 68 by knockout.
Beyond his illustrious boxing career, Foreman found success as a businessman, most famously with the George Foreman Grill, a product that sold over 100 million units and surpassed his sports earnings. With his amiable personality, he became a popular pitchman and occasionally appeared on television, including on the show “The Masked Singer.”
Foreman left an indelible mark on those around him, as evidenced by the fond sentiments of peers such as former champion Mike Tyson, who honored his contributions to boxing and beyond. HBO’s Jim Lampley, who worked closely with Foreman, praised his intelligence and adaptability, referring to the fighter’s charisma and business-minded prowess.
His life’s work encompassed more than the sport; it extended to his roles as a devoted husband, father to 12 children, and spiritual leader. Foreman’s persistence and multifaceted legacy continue to resonate, leaving behind memories cherished by fans and the boxing community alike.
“We have lost a family member,” Bob Arum of Top Rank stated, capturing the shared sentiment of loss. The world mourns the passing of a gracious giant whose storied life will forever inspire.