By rikififi90 
George Foreman, one of the most iconic figures in boxing history, passed away at the age of 76 on Friday, March 21, 2025, in the United States, closing a chapter that went far beyond the ring. Born on January 10, 1949, in Marshall, Texas, he claimed Olympic gold in 1968 at just 19 years old and etched his name in the record books as a two-time heavyweight world champion: first in 1973, at 24, by defeating Joe Frazier, and again in 1994, at 45, when he knocked out Michael Moorer to become the oldest fighter to win the division’s title. His death was announced through an emotional statement on his social media, which did not specify the cause but celebrated a life defined by faith, resilience, and global impact. Beyond boxing, Foreman became a household name as an entrepreneur, most notably with the George Foreman Grill, which sold over 100 million units worldwide.
Foreman’s journey began on the tough streets of Houston, where as a teenager he dabbled in petty crime and street fights, far from any promise of greatness. His life took a turn when he joined the Job Corps, a program for underprivileged youth, and met Doc Broadus, a counselor and boxing coach who introduced him to the sport. From there, his rise was meteoric: from Olympic glory in Mexico City to devastating victories as a professional, Foreman amassed a record of 76 wins, 68 by knockout, and only five losses. His career is remembered for historic achievements and a legendary rivalry with Muhammad Ali, who defeated him in 1974 in the unforgettable “Rumble in the Jungle.”
Outside the ring, Foreman reinvented himself as a pastor, author, and businessman, showcasing a rare ability to evolve. His passing sparked an outpouring of tributes from figures like Mike Tyson, who praised his contributions “in and out of boxing,” and Anthony Joshua, who called him an “eternal champion.” The legacy of Big George, as he was affectionately known, lives on in the sport and in the hearts of millions who admired his strength and perseverance.
- Key moments in Foreman’s career:
- Olympic gold in 1968, at age 19.
- First world title in 1973, knocking out Joe Frazier in two rounds.
- Second title in 1994, at 45, against Michael Moorer.
- Historic loss to Muhammad Ali in 1974, in the “Rumble in the Jungle.”
From Olympic gold to the first world title
George Foreman’s boxing journey kicked off with a remarkable debut. At 19, he stood atop the podium at the 1968 Olympics in Mexico City, defeating Soviet fighter Jonas Čepulis in the heavyweight final. With an amateur record of 22 wins and four losses across 26 bouts, Foreman already showcased the knockout power that would define his career. In 1969, he turned professional, launching an unstoppable run of 37 consecutive victories, most by knockout, paving the way for a showdown with the then-undefeated Joe Frazier.
On January 22, 1973, in Kingston, Jamaica, Foreman faced Frazier for the WBA and WBC heavyweight world titles. The fight lasted just two rounds, with Foreman flooring the champion six times before the referee stopped the bout. The technical knockout not only earned him the belts but also signaled the start of his reign as a dominant force in boxing. In the months that followed, he defended the title with swift victories over Jose Roman, in a record-breaking 50 seconds, and Ken Norton, cementing his status as a heavyweight titan.
That peak came to a halt in 1974 when Foreman met Muhammad Ali in Kinshasa, in what was then Zaire. Dubbed the “Rumble in the Jungle,” the fight drew 60,000 fans to the stadium and reached an estimated global audience of one billion. Despite being the favorite, Foreman was outsmarted by Ali’s “rope-a-dope” strategy, falling to a knockout in the eighth round as Ali reclaimed the heavyweight crown.
The Ali defeat and first retirement
The clash with Muhammad Ali on October 30, 1974, forever altered George Foreman’s path. At 25, he was seen as invincible, boasting a 40-0 record. Yet, the loss to Ali in one of boxing’s most iconic battles shook his confidence. Foreman later recalled hitting Ali so hard he heard him groan, but Ali’s cunning prevailed, ending Foreman’s first stint as champion.
After the defeat, Foreman kept fighting, but the magic had faded. In 1977, following a points loss to Jimmy Young in San Juan, Puerto Rico, he retired from boxing at 28. The Young fight proved transformative: Foreman described a spiritual awakening in the locker room, seeing “Christian crosses” on his hands, which led him to become an evangelical pastor. Over the next decade, he devoted himself to religion, family, and founding a youth community center in Houston, stepping away from the sport entirely.
This period revealed a softer side of Foreman. Far from the “punching machine” persona of the 1970s, he preached in churches and supported underserved communities, using his boxing earnings to fund social initiatives. Retirement, however, wouldn’t last forever, as financial struggles in the early 1980s set the stage for an improbable comeback.
A historic comeback and title at 45
Ten years after his initial retirement, George Foreman stunned the boxing world by returning in 1987 at age 38. Driven by the need to sustain his youth center, he stepped back into the ring weighing over 260 pounds, well above his prime fighting shape. Despite skepticism, Foreman racked up 24 straight wins between 1987 and 1991, proving his fists still carried power, even in his late 30s.
In 1991, he challenged Evander Holyfield for the heavyweight title, losing by unanimous decision in a fight that earned respect despite the defeat, as he faced an opponent 19 years his junior. Redemption arrived on November 5, 1994, when, at 45, Foreman took on Michael Moorer in Las Vegas. Moorer controlled the first nine rounds, but in the tenth, Foreman landed a precise right hand, knocking out the champion to reclaim the WBA and IBF belts. The victory made him the oldest heavyweight champion in history.
- Highlights of Foreman’s comeback:
- Returned at 38 after a decade away.
- 24 consecutive wins from 1987 to 1991.
- Historic knockout of Moorer in 1994, at 45.
- Set record as the oldest champion in the division.
Beyond the ring: The George Foreman Grill empire
Outside of boxing, George Foreman built an equally remarkable legacy as an entrepreneur. In 1994, the same year he recaptured the world title, he partnered with Salton Inc. to lend his name to a line of electric grills. The George Foreman Grill, marketed as the “Lean Mean Grilling Machine,” became a global sensation, selling over 100 million units and generating an estimated $200 million in revenue by 1998. In 1999, Foreman pocketed around $130 million for the rights to his name, dwarfing his boxing earnings.
The grill’s success turned Foreman into a pop culture icon, featured in TV ads and shows like “The Masked Singer.” He also authored books, including “By George,” and starred in the 1990s sitcom “George,” solidifying his mainstream appeal. His knack for reinvention after boxing made him a model of resilience and business savvy.
Foreman’s personal life also drew attention. Married five times, he fathered 12 children, including five sons all named George Edward Foreman, a decision he said kept the family connected. His daughter Freeda followed him into boxing but passed away in 2019 at 42.
Big George’s enduring impact on boxing and society
George Foreman’s death at 76 left the sports world mourning, but his influence remains timeless. From a troubled youth in Houston to a global icon, he lived a life of highs and lows, defined by unlikely triumphs and unwavering faith. His boxing career, spanning 81 professional fights with 76 wins, ranks him alongside legends like Muhammad Ali and Joe Frazier, with whom he formed a historic trio in the 1970s.
Beyond the ring, Foreman shone as a humanitarian. The youth center he established in Houston stands as a testament to his dedication to young people, offering opportunities he lacked growing up. His shift to ministry also inspired countless followers, proving Big George’s strength extended far beyond his punches.
Tributes poured in from sports luminaries. Mike Tyson said Foreman would be remembered “forever,” while NBA legend Magic Johnson praised his kindness and influence. His friendship with Ali, which blossomed after years of rivalry, was celebrated as one of the greatest gifts of his career.
- Timeline of Foreman’s life:
- 1949: Born in Marshall, Texas.
- 1968: Wins Olympic gold in Mexico City.
- 1973: Becomes world champion by defeating Joe Frazier.
- 1974: Loses title to Muhammad Ali in the “Rumble in the Jungle.”
- 1977: Retires for the first time at 28.
- 1987: Returns to boxing at 38.
- 1994: Reclaims world title at 45.
- 2025: Passes away at 76 on March 21.
George Foreman, one of the most iconic figures in boxing history, passed away at the age of 76 on Friday, March 21, 2025, in the United States, closing a chapter that went far beyond the ring. Born on January 10, 1949, in Marshall, Texas, he claimed Olympic gold in 1968 at just 19 years old and etched his name in the record books as a two-time heavyweight world champion: first in 1973, at 24, by defeating Joe Frazier, and again in 1994, at 45, when he knocked out Michael Moorer to become the oldest fighter to win the division’s title. His death was announced through an emotional statement on his social media, which did not specify the cause but celebrated a life defined by faith, resilience, and global impact. Beyond boxing, Foreman became a household name as an entrepreneur, most notably with the George Foreman Grill, which sold over 100 million units worldwide.
Foreman’s journey began on the tough streets of Houston, where as a teenager he dabbled in petty crime and street fights, far from any promise of greatness. His life took a turn when he joined the Job Corps, a program for underprivileged youth, and met Doc Broadus, a counselor and boxing coach who introduced him to the sport. From there, his rise was meteoric: from Olympic glory in Mexico City to devastating victories as a professional, Foreman amassed a record of 76 wins, 68 by knockout, and only five losses. His career is remembered for historic achievements and a legendary rivalry with Muhammad Ali, who defeated him in 1974 in the unforgettable “Rumble in the Jungle.”
Outside the ring, Foreman reinvented himself as a pastor, author, and businessman, showcasing a rare ability to evolve. His passing sparked an outpouring of tributes from figures like Mike Tyson, who praised his contributions “in and out of boxing,” and Anthony Joshua, who called him an “eternal champion.” The legacy of Big George, as he was affectionately known, lives on in the sport and in the hearts of millions who admired his strength and perseverance.
- Key moments in Foreman’s career:
- Olympic gold in 1968, at age 19.
- First world title in 1973, knocking out Joe Frazier in two rounds.
- Second title in 1994, at 45, against Michael Moorer.
- Historic loss to Muhammad Ali in 1974, in the “Rumble in the Jungle.”
From Olympic gold to the first world title
George Foreman’s boxing journey kicked off with a remarkable debut. At 19, he stood atop the podium at the 1968 Olympics in Mexico City, defeating Soviet fighter Jonas Čepulis in the heavyweight final. With an amateur record of 22 wins and four losses across 26 bouts, Foreman already showcased the knockout power that would define his career. In 1969, he turned professional, launching an unstoppable run of 37 consecutive victories, most by knockout, paving the way for a showdown with the then-undefeated Joe Frazier.
On January 22, 1973, in Kingston, Jamaica, Foreman faced Frazier for the WBA and WBC heavyweight world titles. The fight lasted just two rounds, with Foreman flooring the champion six times before the referee stopped the bout. The technical knockout not only earned him the belts but also signaled the start of his reign as a dominant force in boxing. In the months that followed, he defended the title with swift victories over Jose Roman, in a record-breaking 50 seconds, and Ken Norton, cementing his status as a heavyweight titan.
That peak came to a halt in 1974 when Foreman met Muhammad Ali in Kinshasa, in what was then Zaire. Dubbed the “Rumble in the Jungle,” the fight drew 60,000 fans to the stadium and reached an estimated global audience of one billion. Despite being the favorite, Foreman was outsmarted by Ali’s “rope-a-dope” strategy, falling to a knockout in the eighth round as Ali reclaimed the heavyweight crown.
The Ali defeat and first retirement
The clash with Muhammad Ali on October 30, 1974, forever altered George Foreman’s path. At 25, he was seen as invincible, boasting a 40-0 record. Yet, the loss to Ali in one of boxing’s most iconic battles shook his confidence. Foreman later recalled hitting Ali so hard he heard him groan, but Ali’s cunning prevailed, ending Foreman’s first stint as champion.
After the defeat, Foreman kept fighting, but the magic had faded. In 1977, following a points loss to Jimmy Young in San Juan, Puerto Rico, he retired from boxing at 28. The Young fight proved transformative: Foreman described a spiritual awakening in the locker room, seeing “Christian crosses” on his hands, which led him to become an evangelical pastor. Over the next decade, he devoted himself to religion, family, and founding a youth community center in Houston, stepping away from the sport entirely.
This period revealed a softer side of Foreman. Far from the “punching machine” persona of the 1970s, he preached in churches and supported underserved communities, using his boxing earnings to fund social initiatives. Retirement, however, wouldn’t last forever, as financial struggles in the early 1980s set the stage for an improbable comeback.
A historic comeback and title at 45
Ten years after his initial retirement, George Foreman stunned the boxing world by returning in 1987 at age 38. Driven by the need to sustain his youth center, he stepped back into the ring weighing over 260 pounds, well above his prime fighting shape. Despite skepticism, Foreman racked up 24 straight wins between 1987 and 1991, proving his fists still carried power, even in his late 30s.
In 1991, he challenged Evander Holyfield for the heavyweight title, losing by unanimous decision in a fight that earned respect despite the defeat, as he faced an opponent 19 years his junior. Redemption arrived on November 5, 1994, when, at 45, Foreman took on Michael Moorer in Las Vegas. Moorer controlled the first nine rounds, but in the tenth, Foreman landed a precise right hand, knocking out the champion to reclaim the WBA and IBF belts. The victory made him the oldest heavyweight champion in history.
- Highlights of Foreman’s comeback:
- Returned at 38 after a decade away.
- 24 consecutive wins from 1987 to 1991.
- Historic knockout of Moorer in 1994, at 45.
- Set record as the oldest champion in the division.
Beyond the ring: The George Foreman Grill empire
Outside of boxing, George Foreman built an equally remarkable legacy as an entrepreneur. In 1994, the same year he recaptured the world title, he partnered with Salton Inc. to lend his name to a line of electric grills. The George Foreman Grill, marketed as the “Lean Mean Grilling Machine,” became a global sensation, selling over 100 million units and generating an estimated $200 million in revenue by 1998. In 1999, Foreman pocketed around $130 million for the rights to his name, dwarfing his boxing earnings.
The grill’s success turned Foreman into a pop culture icon, featured in TV ads and shows like “The Masked Singer.” He also authored books, including “By George,” and starred in the 1990s sitcom “George,” solidifying his mainstream appeal. His knack for reinvention after boxing made him a model of resilience and business savvy.
Foreman’s personal life also drew attention. Married five times, he fathered 12 children, including five sons all named George Edward Foreman, a decision he said kept the family connected. His daughter Freeda followed him into boxing but passed away in 2019 at 42.
Big George’s enduring impact on boxing and society
George Foreman’s death at 76 left the sports world mourning, but his influence remains timeless. From a troubled youth in Houston to a global icon, he lived a life of highs and lows, defined by unlikely triumphs and unwavering faith. His boxing career, spanning 81 professional fights with 76 wins, ranks him alongside legends like Muhammad Ali and Joe Frazier, with whom he formed a historic trio in the 1970s.
Beyond the ring, Foreman shone as a humanitarian. The youth center he established in Houston stands as a testament to his dedication to young people, offering opportunities he lacked growing up. His shift to ministry also inspired countless followers, proving Big George’s strength extended far beyond his punches.
Tributes poured in from sports luminaries. Mike Tyson said Foreman would be remembered “forever,” while NBA legend Magic Johnson praised his kindness and influence. His friendship with Ali, which blossomed after years of rivalry, was celebrated as one of the greatest gifts of his career.
- Timeline of Foreman’s life:
- 1949: Born in Marshall, Texas.
- 1968: Wins Olympic gold in Mexico City.
- 1973: Becomes world champion by defeating Joe Frazier.
- 1974: Loses title to Muhammad Ali in the “Rumble in the Jungle.”
- 1977: Retires for the first time at 28.
- 1987: Returns to boxing at 38.
- 1994: Reclaims world title at 45.
- 2025: Passes away at 76 on March 21.
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