George Foreman, the two-time heavyweight boxing champion, Olympic gold medalist, and successful entrepreneur, passed away on March 21, 2025, at the age of 76, his family announced. Foreman’s remarkable life and career spanned over five decades, during which he became an iconic figure in the world of boxing and beyond.
Born on January 10, 1949, in Marshall, Texas, Foreman grew up in poverty alongside six siblings. He dropped out of school and turned to street crime before finding his way into boxing ². Foreman’s early life was marked by challenges, but he eventually found solace in the sport that would make him a legend.
Foreman’s boxing career began with an Olympic gold medal at the 1968 Mexico City Games. He then turned professional, winning 37 consecutive fights before claiming his first heavyweight title in 1973 by defeating Joe Frazier in a stunning knockout victory ¹. This triumph marked the beginning of Foreman’s illustrious career as a heavyweight champion.
One of Foreman’s most notable fights was against Muhammad Ali in 1974, famously dubbed “The Rumble in the Jungle.” Although Foreman suffered his first career loss to Ali, the fight remains one of the most iconic moments in boxing history . Foreman’s loss to Ali led to a turning point in his life, as he later reflected, “It was the best thing that ever happened to me” .
Foreman retired from boxing in 1977 but made a remarkable comeback in 1987. He went on to win 12 straight fights before falling to Evander Holyfield via unanimous decision in 1991. Foreman’s determination and perseverance ultimately led him to reclaim the heavyweight title in 1994 by knocking out Michael Moorer at the age of 45, making him the oldest heavyweight champion in history .
Beyond his achievements in the ring, Foreman was also a successful entrepreneur. He earned millions from the George Foreman Grill, which became a global phenomenon, outselling his boxing earnings . Foreman’s endorsement of the “Lean Mean Grilling Machine” turned the product into a household name, cementing his status as a savvy businessman.
Foreman’s legacy extends far beyond his accomplishments in boxing and business. He was a devoted husband, father, and grandfather, and his family was always at the forefront of his life. Foreman was married five times and had 12 children, including five sons, all named George . As he once said, “I named them after me so they would always have something in common. If one of us goes up, we all go up together. And if one goes down, we all go down together.”
Throughout his life, Foreman was guided by his strong faith and commitment to his community. He became an ordained minister and established the Church of the Lord Jesus Christ in Houston, Texas . Foreman’s dedication to his faith and his community was evident in his philanthropic work, particularly in supporting youth development programs.
As news of Foreman’s passing spread, tributes poured in from the boxing community and beyond. Boxing legends, promoters, and fans alike remembered Foreman as a larger-than-life figure who left an indelible mark on the sport. His legacy will continue to inspire future generations of boxers, entrepreneurs, and community leaders.
In conclusion, George Foreman’s remarkable life and career serve as a testament to his determination, perseverance, and faith. As a boxing legend, entrepreneur, and devoted family man, Foreman left an enduring legacy that will continue to inspire and motivate people around the world.
