George Foreman Passes Away at 76 – Boxing Legend & Grill Icon’s Legacy Lives On

George Foreman Passes Away – A Champion’s Legacy Lives On

The world mourns the loss of George Foreman, the legendary two-time heavyweight boxing champion and Olympic gold medalist, who passed away at the age of 76. Known as “Big George,” he was not just a boxing icon but also a successful entrepreneur and a beloved public figure.

His family confirmed the heartbreaking news on his official Instagram account on March 21, 2025:

“With profound sorrow, we announce the passing of our beloved George Edward Foreman Sr., who peacefully departed, surrounded by loved ones. A devoted preacher, loving father, and proud grandfather, he lived a life of faith, humility, and purpose.”

George Foreman’s Journey from the Streets to Boxing Glory

Born in Texas in 1949, George Foreman grew up in Houston’s tough Fifth Ward, where violence and poverty were common. He dropped out of high school at 15 and was involved in petty crime before turning his life around through the Job Corps, where he earned his GED and learned carpentry.

At 16, he discovered boxing. “I started boxing at 17 to lose weight and become a great street fighter,” he recalled. “Next thing I knew, I was fighting as a Golden Glover.”

By 1968, at just 19 years old, Foreman won an Olympic gold medal at the Mexico City Games. Overwhelmed with pride, he celebrated by waving a small American flag in the ring.

George Foreman Passes Away – A Look at His Boxing Career

After turning professional in 1969, George Foreman quickly rose to prominence, winning all 13 fights in his debut year and 12 more in 1970. By 1971, with an undefeated record of 32 wins, he became the top contender for the World Heavyweight Championship.

Foreman vs. Frazier – The First Heavyweight Title Win

In 1973, he faced Joe Frazier in “The Sunshine Showdown” and won by knockout. “I feared no one except Joe Frazier,” Foreman later admitted. “But winning that title was the happiest moment of my life.”

The Rumble in the Jungle – Foreman vs. Ali

In 1974, Foreman defended his title against Muhammad Ali in one of the most legendary fights in history—“The Rumble in the Jungle.” In an unexpected upset, Ali defeated Foreman using his now-famous “rope-a-dope” strategy. Foreman later expressed regret over never having a rematch.

Following the loss, George Foreman continued to box but eventually retired in 1977 after a life-changing near-death experience. He became a born-again Christian and preacher.

George Foreman’s Comeback – A Champion Once Again

In 1987, at the age of 38, Foreman made a shocking return to boxing due to financial struggles. “It was the only profession I knew,” he once said.

Despite setbacks, he won the heavyweight title again in 1994 by defeating Michael Moorer, making him the oldest world champion in boxing history at 45 years old.

Foreman retired for good in 1999, finishing his career with an impressive 76 wins and only 5 losses.

George Foreman Passes Away – His Business Legacy Lives On

Beyond boxing, George Foreman became a household name for something unexpected—the George Foreman Grill. Launched in 1994, the grill became a massive success, selling over 100 million units worldwide.

“My attorney told me, ‘George, you’re making other people rich—why not make yourself wealthy?'” Foreman once shared. The decision turned him into one of the most successful athlete-entrepreneurs ever.

He also dabbled in television, starring in a sitcom and even competing on The Masked Singer in 2022.

Remembering George Foreman – A Family Man at Heart

Beyond the fame, George Foreman was a devoted family man. He had 12 children, including five sons all named George Edward Foreman.

Though George Foreman passes away, his legacy in boxing, business, and beyond will continue to inspire generations.