George Foreman, the legendary heavyweight boxer known as “Big George,” passed away at the age of 76, leaving behind an extraordinary legacy in and out of the ring. The American icon, who won Olympic gold in 1968 and secured the world heavyweight title twice—most notably becoming the oldest champion in history at 45—died on Friday, according to a heartfelt Instagram post from his family.
Foreman’s illustrious career spanned decades, marked by a staggering 76 wins, including 68 knockouts, nearly twice as many as his rival Muhammad Ali. His first title reign ended in 1974 when he famously lost to Ali in the “Rumble in the Jungle” in Kinshasa, Zaire (now the Democratic Republic of the Congo), a bout still celebrated as one of boxing’s greatest. Yet Foreman’s resilience shone through as he reclaimed the heavyweight crown 21 years later, cementing his place in history.
Born on January 10, 1949, in Marshall, Texas, Foreman grew up in the segregated South, raised by a single mother alongside six siblings. At 19, he captured heavyweight gold at the 1968 Mexico City Olympics, launching a professional career that saw him win 37 straight fights. His 1973 victory over then-undefeated champion Joe Frazier in Kingston, Jamaica—knocking Frazier down six times in two rounds—remains a defining moment.
Beyond boxing, Foreman’s name became synonymous with the hugely successful George Foreman Grill, a venture that earned him wealth far exceeding his ring earnings. Retiring in 1997, he transitioned into a life of faith and family, remembered by loved ones as “a devout preacher, a devoted husband, a loving father, and a proud grand and great grandfather.” His family’s statement highlighted his humanitarian spirit, discipline, and unwavering commitment to his legacy.
The boxing world mourned his loss, with former heavyweight champion Mike Tyson leading tributes, saying, “His contribution to boxing and beyond will never be forgotten.” Foreman’s life, defined by triumphs over adversity and a lasting impact on sport and culture, leaves an indelible mark.
