Heavyweight Boxing Legend George Foreman Dies at 76, Says Family
Houston, Texas – March 14, 2025 – The world of boxing has lost one of its greatest champions as George Foreman, the two-time heavyweight world champion and Olympic gold medalist, has passed away at the age of 76. Foreman’s family confirmed his passing in a heartfelt statement, expressing their grief and gratitude for the legacy he leaves behind.
A Boxing Icon and Cultural Phenomenon
Born on January 10, 1949, in Marshall, Texas, Foreman rose from humble beginnings to become one of the most dominant fighters of his era. His raw power and aggressive style led him to Olympic gold in 1968 and later to his first heavyweight title in 1973 when he dismantled Joe Frazier in a stunning second-round knockout.
Foreman’s reign as champion was short-lived, as he suffered a historic defeat to Muhammad Ali in the legendary "Rumble in the Jungle" fight in 1974. The bout, held in Kinshasa, Zaire (now the Democratic Republic of Congo), saw Ali deploy his famous "rope-a-dope" strategy to exhaust Foreman before delivering a knockout blow in the eighth round.
After a brief decline in the sport and a spiritual transformation, Foreman retired from boxing in 1977 and became a preacher. However, in one of the most remarkable comebacks in sports history, he returned to the ring in the late 1980s. In 1994, at the age of 45, Foreman stunned the world by reclaiming the heavyweight championship with a knockout victory over Michael Moorer, making him the oldest world champion in boxing history.
Beyond Boxing: Businessman, Preacher, and Motivational Speaker
While Foreman’s accomplishments in the ring were legendary, his success outside of boxing was equally impressive. He became a household name through his immensely popular George Foreman Grill, which sold over 100 million units worldwide. His entrepreneurial ventures, along with his work as a motivational speaker and ordained minister, helped him become one of the most beloved figures in sports history.
He often spoke about his faith and how it helped him find peace after his first retirement. “I was given a second chance in life, and I wanted to use it to make a difference,” Foreman once said.
Tributes Pour In from the Boxing World
Following the announcement of Foreman’s passing, tributes have flooded in from across the boxing community and beyond. Former heavyweight champion Mike Tyson tweeted, "We lost a giant today. George Foreman was not just a fighter, but a man of character and strength. He paved the way for so many of us. Rest in peace, champ."
Lennox Lewis, another former heavyweight great, added, "George was a true warrior, both in and out of the ring. His comeback story inspired generations, and his kindness left a lasting impact."
Even outside of sports, celebrities and fans have shared their condolences, remembering Foreman not only as a fighter but as a larger-than-life personality who transcended the sport.
A Lasting Legacy
Foreman’s career, spanning over five decades, was a testament to resilience, reinvention, and redemption. His journey from a troubled youth to an Olympic champion, world champion, preacher, and global entrepreneur is one of the most remarkable stories in sports history.
He is survived by his wife, Mary Joan Martelly, and his children. The family has requested privacy during this difficult time and has announced that details regarding memorial services will be shared in the coming days.
As the world bids farewell to George Foreman, his legacy will endure as an embodiment of perseverance, faith, and the undying spirit of a champion.
Rest in peace, Big George.
