Fans are mourning the loss.
Boxing icon George Foreman passed away at 76, his family confirmed on Friday. Foreman, a two-time heavyweight champion, became known for some of the most iconic moments in boxing history.
He first gained international recognition in 1968 when he won a gold medal at the Summer Olympics in Mexico City. Shortly after, Foreman turned professional and in 1973, defeated the undefeated Joe Frazier to win his first heavyweight title. His most famous bout came in 1974 when he faced Muhammad Ali in the legendary “Rumble in the Jungle” in Zaire. Despite Foreman’s dominance, Ali stunned the boxing world with an eighth-round TKO victory. The two men would later form a close friendship, and Foreman called Ali his “best friend” after Ali’s passing in 2016.
Foreman retired in 1977 and devoted himself to religion, becoming an ordained minister and preaching in a Houston church. However, after a decade away from boxing, Foreman made a stunning return in 1988, re-entering the ring at nearly 40 years old. His comeback culminated in 1994 when he became the oldest heavyweight champion in history at 45 by defeating Michael Moorer. This achievement is widely regarded as one of the greatest feats in sports.
After retiring for good in 1997 with a record of 76-5, Foreman was celebrated not just for his boxing career but also for his personal values. Described as a devoted preacher, loving father, and proud grandfather, Foreman lived a life centered around faith, humility, and purpose. Beyond the ring, he became the face of the highly successful George Foreman Grill, a product that became a cultural icon.
Foreman was inducted into the International Boxing Hall of Fame in 2003, cementing his legacy as one of the sport’s greatest figures. His family asked for privacy as they mourn the loss of a man who touched many lives, both inside and outside the ring.
