The world of boxing has lost one of its greatest icons, as George Foreman—known affectionately as “Big George”—has died at the age of 76. A towering figure both inside and outside the ring, Foreman built a storied, enduring career that spanned decades, making him one of the most celebrated heavyweights in boxing history.
Foreman’s legacy was defined by historic triumphs, starting with his Olympic gold medal win in 1968. He went on to capture the world heavyweight title twice, an astonishing feat completed 21 years apart. His second victory at age 45 made him the oldest heavyweight champion in history, a record that still stands.
His first title reign was cut short in 1974 by Muhammad Ali in the legendary “Rumble in the Jungle” bout in Zaire, but Foreman’s sheer dominance in the ring earned him an incredible record of 76 wins, including 68 knockouts—nearly twice the number of Ali’s.
Though Foreman retired from professional boxing in 1997, his fame grew even beyond the sport. His partnership with the George Foreman Grill transformed him into a cultural phenomenon and brought him financial success that surpassed even his boxing earnings.
Foreman’s family shared the news of his passing in an emotional statement on Instagram: “Our hearts are broken. A devout preacher, a devoted husband, a loving father, and a proud grand and great-grandfather, he lived a life marked by unwavering faith, humility, and purpose.”
They continued: “A humanitarian, an Olympian, and two-time heavyweight champion of the world, he was deeply respected—a force for good, a man of discipline, conviction, and a protector of his legacy, fighting tirelessly to preserve his good name for his family.”
The boxing world was swift to pay tribute. Former heavyweight champion Mike Tyson hailed Foreman as “a giant of the sport whose contribution to boxing and beyond will never be forgotten.” The Ring Magazine, regarded as the “Bible of Boxing,” described him as “one of the greatest heavyweights of all time” and said, “[He] will be remembered as an icon of the sport forever.”
Foreman’s journey to greatness was anything but conventional. Born on January 10, 1949, in Marshall, Texas, he grew up with six siblings, raised by a single mother in the racially segregated American South. As a troubled youth, Foreman dropped out of school and resorted to street crime before finding his calling in boxing—a discovery that changed his life and ultimately cemented his place as one of the sport’s most legendary figures.
With his trademark knockout power, larger-than-life personality, and unmatched resilience, George Foreman left an indelible mark on boxing and pop culture alike. His towering achievements inside the ring and his remarkable reinvention as a businessman and preacher will ensure that his legacy endures for generations.
Rest in peace, Big George. You were truly one of a kind.
