George Foreman, the two-time world heavyweight boxing champion and oldest heavyweight boxing champion has passed away at the age of 76.
His family announced his death in a statement on March 21, 2025, saying he died peacefully, surrounded by loved ones.
“With profound sorrow, we announce the passing of our beloved George Edward Foreman Sr., who peacefully departed on March 21, 2025, surrounded by loved ones. We are grateful for the outpouring of love and prayers and kindly ask for privacy as we honor the extraordinary life of a man we were blessed to call our own,” the statement read.
A Meteoric Rise to Boxing Greatness
Born in 1949 in Houston, Texas, Foreman overcame a troubled upbringing and discovered boxing through the Job Corps program. His athletic ability quickly became evident, culminating in a gold medal victory at the 1968 Mexico City Olympics at just 19 years old.
Standing at 6-foot-4 (1.93m) and known as ‘Big George,’ he became a dominant force in the heavyweight division. In 1973, he demolished Joe Frazier in two rounds to win the heavyweight championship.
The Rumble in the Jungle
Foreman’s first reign as heavyweight champion came to an end in the legendary “Rumble in the Jungle” bout against Muhammad Ali in 1974. Despite being undefeated with a 40-0 record, Foreman fell to Ali’s tactical “rope-a-dope” strategy, suffering a knockout in the eighth round.
The loss was devastating, and after a subsequent defeat to Jimmy Young in 1977, Foreman retired at 28, citing a profound religious experience.
A Stunning Comeback
After a decade away from boxing, Foreman made an unlikely comeback in 1987 to raise funds for his youth center. Initially dismissed as a novelty, he defied expectations with a series of victories.
In 1994, at the age of 45, Foreman stunned the world by knocking out Michael Moorer to reclaim the heavyweight championship—becoming the oldest heavyweight champion in history. He finally retired in 1997 with a record of 76 wins (68 by knockout) and just five losses.
Beyond the Ring
Outside boxing, Foreman became a household name through the George Foreman Grill, which sold over 100 million units worldwide. He was also a preacher and television personality, advocating for fatherhood and family values.
He is survived by his wife and 12 children, including five sons—all named George Edward Foreman.
Foreman’s legacy extends far beyond the ring. From Olympic gold medalist to two-time heavyweight champion, entrepreneur, and minister, he leaves behind a life story of triumph, reinvention, and redemption.
