HOUSTON March 30, 2025 — George Foreman, the two-time heavyweight boxing champion whose remarkable comeback and charismatic personality made him a beloved global icon, passed away on Friday at the age of 76, his family confirmed.
The legendary fighter, known as “Big George,” overcame a tough upbringing in Houston’s Fifth Ward to claim Olympic gold in 1968 and the heavyweight title in 1973 with a dominant knockout of Joe Frazier in just two rounds.
A year later, he lost the title in the historic “Rumble in the Jungle” against Muhammad Ali, one of the most memorable fights in boxing history.
In an astonishing comeback two decades later, the 45-year-old Foreman shocked the world by knocking out Michael Moorer in 1994 to reclaim the heavyweight championship, becoming the oldest fighter to ever win the title.
This victory also set the record for the longest gap between title reigns in boxing history.
His family announced his passing on social media, describing him as “a devout preacher, a devoted husband, a loving father, and a proud grand- and great-grandfather.” The cause and location of his death were not disclosed.
Foreman retired with a professional record of 76 wins (68 by knockout) and 5 losses, but his impact extended far beyond boxing.
He became a television personality, an Olympic ambassador, and a highly successful entrepreneur, most notably lending his name to the George Foreman Grill, which sold over 100 million units.
Born in 1949, Foreman overcame early hardships and a troubled youth to become one of the most feared punchers in boxing history.
Initially known for his intimidating presence, he retired from boxing in 1977 following a spiritual awakening and dedicated himself to preaching and mentoring at-risk youth.
At age 38, Foreman made an unexpected return to the ring in 1987, defying critics with his resilience, power, and charm.
After reclaiming the title in 1994, he competed in four more fights before retiring for good in 1997.
Beyond boxing, Foreman embraced fame, starring in commercials, briefly hosting a sitcom, appearing on “The Masked Singer” in 2022, and becoming the subject of the 2023 biopic Big George Foreman.
He fathered 12 children, famously naming five of his sons George, and was remembered as both a formidable competitor and a kind, spiritual man. — Agencies