The sports world mourns the loss of George Foreman, the esteemed two-time heavyweight boxing champion, with heartfelt tributes pouring in from across various fields.
Mike Tyson, Foreman’s fellow two-time heavyweight champion, expressed his sympathy, stating, “Condolences to George Foreman’s family. His contribution to boxing and beyond will never be forgotten.” The impact of Foreman’s legacy is echoed by Scottie Pippen, a six-time NBA champion, who simply said, “Rest in peace, George Foreman. Your legacy lives on, champ.”
Magic Johnson, well-known for his NBA success and entrepreneurial ventures, reminisced, “I attended so many of George’s championship fights over his career. He was a knockout artist in the ring, and it was a pleasure getting to know him not only as a boxer but as a man. After leaving the ring, he turned into an amazing businessman — I even bought one of the first George Foreman grills!” Johnson’s words highlight Foreman’s transition from an athletic icon to a savvy businessman.
Rap artist Chuck D, co-founder of Public Enemy, somberly reflected, “RIP this hitting me tuff as George was one of my HEROES.” Meanwhile, Texas Representative Wesley Hunt paid homage to Foreman’s multifaceted life, saying, “We have lost a true American legend. George Foreman was more than just a two-time heavyweight champion; he was a symbol of strength, resilience, faith, and redemption. From the ring to the pulpit, from Olympic gold to entrepreneurial greatness, George Foreman inspired generations with his story of perseverance and grace.” Hunt emphasized Foreman’s deep ties with Houston and his inspirational journey.
Actor John Cusack shared his personal sentiments, “Beyond a living legend in the ring – just a wonderful spirit – an incredibly kind generous man — in person. I always remember every encounter with great gratitude — it was an honor to know him.”
Boxing promoter Bob Arum expressed profound loss, “George was a great friend to not only myself, but to my entire family. We’ve lost a family member and are absolutely devastated.” Hall of Fame NBA player Charles Barkley reflected on Foreman’s continued influence, “I got to know Mr. Foreman a little bit, seeing him at all the boxing matches and I always picked his brain about trying to be an entrepreneur when your career is over. It hurts a lot because he was obviously one of the greatest boxers ever, but just a gentle man, was a pastor. This just hurts.”
ESPN journalist Jeremy Schaap recognized Foreman’s incredible journey, saying, “Good case to be made that George Foreman fashioned the greatest second act in sports history. And it was more than reclaiming the title. It was a total transformation.”
John Whitmire, mayor of Houston, nostalgically recalled his interaction with Foreman, stating, “In 1973, I was honored to welcome Foreman to the State Capitol along with my then-colleague, Mickey Leland. The world knew Foreman as a two-time heavyweight champion; we knew him as a proud member of our community — a man whose heart was as big as his powerful punch. George’s journey from the streets of Fifth Ward to boxing and business success was an inspiration. He never forgot where he came from, and his commitment to our city was constant. I extend my condolences to his family. Houston will forever be proud to call George Foreman one of our own.”
The messages of sympathy and respect emphasize the immense impact George Foreman left on the world, highlighting the strength of his legacy beyond the boxing ring. His story of victory, redemption, and transformation continues to inspire many, etching his memory into the annals of sporting history.