Boxing Legend George Foreman Dies at 76
The world mourns the loss of George Foreman, the two-time world heavyweight boxing champion, Olympic gold medalist, and successful entrepreneur, who passed away peacefully at the age of 76 on March 21, 2025. His passing marks the end of an era for boxing and business alike.
Foreman's journey was one of remarkable transformation. From a troubled youth growing up in poverty in Texas, where he admitted to being a mugger and brawler by the age of 15, he rose to become an Olympic hero in 1968, securing a gold medal at the Mexico City Games. However, his ascent to superstardom was truly cemented by his achievements in the boxing ring.
His boxing career saw him battering some of boxing's biggest names, including Joe Frazier and Ken Norton. But, the 1974 'Rumble in the Jungle' loss to Muhammad Ali proved to be a pivotal moment in his life. After a hiatus and rebuild, an apparent career-ending loss in 1977 led Foreman to find religion, transforming into a gentle giant and devout man of God.
In a surprise second act, Foreman returned to the ring after a decade-long retirement at the age of 38. Many considered him a laughing stock due to his age and physique, but his in-ring genius, granite chin, and ever-present power propelled him to another 24 wins. This comeback culminated in him regaining the heavyweight boxing championship by defeating the younger, undefeated Michael Moorer in 1994, at the age of 45, becoming the oldest man to ever hold the title.
But Foreman's impact extended far beyond the boxing ring. Following the end of his fighting career, he became the iconic face of a $200 million grilling empire. Endorsing the George Foreman Grill in 1994 with his signature wide smile and memorable lines like, "It's a knockout," the grills became a household staple. His endorsement deal earned him around $100 million in 1999, and he eventually made around $200 million from various product endorsements with Salton Inc.
Tributes have poured in from across the globe, with boxing superstar Mike Tyson expressing his condolences to Foreman's family and acknowledging his unforgettable contribution to boxing. Audley Harrison, Team GB's super-heavy 2000 gold winner, also mourned the loss of one of the greatest to ever do it. Thomas Hearns, a former multi-division champion, paid tribute to Foreman as a true icon in and out of the ring, highlighting his resilience and impact on boxing and the lives he touched.
Foreman's family released a statement on Instagram, expressing their heartbreak and describing him as a devout preacher, devoted husband, loving father, proud grandfather, and great grandfather. They celebrated his unwavering faith, humility, purpose, and his role as a humanitarian, Olympian, and two-time heavyweight champion.
George Foreman is survived by his wife, children, and grandchildren, leaving behind a legacy of faith, resilience, and entrepreneurial success. His impact on the world of boxing and beyond will be remembered for generations to come.