Boxing Legend George Foreman Dies at 76
- paolo bibat
- Mar 22
- 2 min read
George Foreman, the legendary two-time heavyweight boxing champion and Olympic gold medalist, passed away on Friday, March 21, 2025, at the age of 76.
His family confirmed the news in a heartfelt statement shared on social media, describing him as a devoted family man and a global icon of strength and resilience.
Foreman first rose to prominence at the 1968 Olympics in Mexico City, where he won the heavyweight gold medal at just 19 years old.
Turning professional shortly after, he built an undefeated record of 37 wins before claiming the heavyweight title in 1973 with a stunning second-round knockout of Joe Frazier.
However, his reign was short-lived; in 1974, Foreman faced Muhammad Ali in the iconic "Rumble in the Jungle" in Kinshasa, Zaire (now the Democratic Republic of the Congo).
Despite entering as the favorite, Foreman lost by knockout in the eighth round—a match that remains one of the most celebrated events in sports history.
After retiring for the first time in 1977 following a loss to Jimmy Young, Foreman shocked the world with an improbable comeback a decade later. In 1994, at the age of 45, he defeated Michael Moorer to reclaim the heavyweight title, becoming the oldest champion in boxing history.
He retired for good in 1997 with an impressive career record of 76 wins (68 by knockout) and only five losses.
Outside the ring, Foreman became a cultural icon. His entrepreneurial ventures included the wildly successful George Foreman Grill, which sold over 100 million units worldwide.
In addition to his business achievements, he served as a preacher and philanthropist, dedicating much of his life to youth programs and community development.
Foreman's influence extended far beyond boxing. Inducted into both the World Boxing Hall of Fame and the International Boxing Hall of Fame, he is widely regarded as one of the greatest heavyweights of all time.
His family’s tribute described him as “a humanitarian, Olympian, and champion who lived with faith and purpose.”
Foreman’s passing marks the end of an era for boxing and sports at large. His legacy as a fighter, innovator, and role model will endure for generations to come.
