George Foreman, the legendary two-time world heavyweight boxing champion and Olympic gold medalist, has passed away at the age of 76. His death was confirmed on Friday via a verified social media account dedicated to the boxing icon.
“Our hearts are broken,” the Instagram post read. “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. A devout preacher, a devoted husband, and a loving father, he lived a life marked by unwavering faith, humility, and purpose.”
Foreman’s impact on the boxing world is immeasurable. Known for his ferocious power and unbreakable spirit, he first rose to prominence after winning Olympic gold in 1968, a moment that ignited his historic career. His name became legendary after his brutal knockout of Joe Frazier in 1973, securing his first heavyweight title. However, it was his unforgettable 1974 showdown with Muhammad Ali, famously dubbed the Rumble in the Jungle, that cemented his place in history.
Despite being the favorite against Ali, Foreman suffered a shocking defeat in Zaire (now the Democratic Republic of Congo), where Ali’s strategic rope-a-dope technique exhausted the champion before delivering the knockout punch in the eighth round. It was Foreman’s only knockout loss in his 28-year career.
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After his first retirement in 1977, Foreman found faith and became an ordained minister, dedicating himself to preaching and philanthropy. But his story didn’t end there. In a stunning comeback, he returned to boxing at 39, defying all odds to reclaim the heavyweight championship in 1994 by defeating Michael Moorer—20 years after losing to Ali. This victory made him the oldest heavyweight champion in history at 45, a record that still stands.
Beyond the ring, Foreman became a successful entrepreneur, making his mark with the George Foreman Grill, a product that became a household name, selling over 100 million units worldwide. His larger-than-life personality also led to a clothing line, a reality TV show, and continued success as a motivational speaker.
His life was not without controversy. In 2022, Foreman was accused of past sexual misconduct, allegations he vehemently denied. He filed court motions in 2024 to dismiss the lawsuits.
In 2023, Foreman’s incredible life story was brought to the big screen in the biopic Big George Foreman, which highlighted his struggles, triumphs, and unwavering faith. Reflecting on the film, he told CNN, “It’s not easy to tell a story about your life when you’ve spent a lifetime trying to hide it.”
Foreman’s journey from an impoverished childhood in Houston’s Fifth Ward to global superstardom is a testament to resilience and reinvention. His legacy as a fighter, preacher, businessman, and family man will live on, inspiring generations to come.
