George Foreman, the iconic two-time heavyweight boxing champion and Olympic gold medalist, passed away on March 21, 2025, at the age of 76. His family confirmed that he died peacefully, surrounded by loved ones.
Known for his raw punching power, remarkable comebacks, and outsized personality both in and out of the ring, Foreman’s legacy stretches far beyond boxing—he became a cultural icon, entrepreneur, and preacher, respected and beloved around the world.
Born on January 10, 1949, in Marshall, Texas, and raised in Houston, George Foreman’s rise from poverty to boxing greatness is the stuff of legend. He won a gold medal at the 1968 Mexico City Olympics, launching a professional boxing career that would etch his name into sports history.
Foreman stunned the world in 1973 when he demolished Joe Frazier to claim the heavyweight title, knocking him down six times in two rounds.
A year later, he faced Muhammad Ali in the legendary “Rumble in the Jungle” in Zaire. Though Foreman lost in one of boxing’s most famous upsets, the fight cemented his place in history.
After a decade-long retirement, Foreman made one of the most improbable comebacks in sports. In 1994, at age 45, he knocked out Michael Moorer to reclaim the heavyweight title, becoming the oldest heavyweight champion in boxing history.
Foreman was more than just a fighter. He became a savvy businessman, most famously lending his name to the George Foreman Grill, which sold over 100 million units and made him a multi-millionaire.
A born-again Christian, Foreman was also a preacher and motivational speaker, using his platform to share stories of redemption, perseverance, and faith.
Foreman is survived by his large family, including 12 children—five of his sons famously share his name: George Jr., George III, George IV, George V, and George VI. He once said he did it so they’d all "have something in common."
Following the news of his passing, tributes flooded social media and sports networks.
“A man of God, a warrior in the ring, and a gentle giant outside it,” said Mike Tyson. “He was an inspiration to so many.”
Promoters, fellow athletes, and fans praised Foreman not only for his achievements but for his humility, warmth, and ability to reinvent himself at every stage of life.
George Foreman leaves behind an unmatched legacy. From Olympic podiums and title belts to kitchen counters and Sunday sermons, he was a man who transcended every label. Boxer. Businessman. Preacher. Father. Legend.
His story was about more than victories—it was about resilience, transformation, and heart. The world didn’t just lose a champion—it lost a symbol of hope.
Rest in peace, Big George.