LOS ANGELES – George Foreman, the legendary two-time heavyweight champion, Olympic gold medalist, minister, and businessman, has died at the age of 76, his family announced on Friday.
Renowned for both his dominance in the boxing ring and his deep faith and humility outside of it, Foreman passed away peacefully on March 21, surrounded by family.
In an emotional Instagram post, his family described him as “a force for good” who lived with “unwavering faith, humility, and purpose.”
They also remembered him as “a devoted preacher, loving husband, caring father, and proud grandfather and great-grandfather,” emphasizing his strong values, discipline, and commitment to preserving his legacy.
George Foreman’s Journey to Boxing Greatness
Early Life and Rise to Fame
Born and raised in Houston’s Fifth Ward, George Foreman overcame humble beginnings to become a legendary figure in sports. He first gained national recognition when he won a gold medal in the heavyweight division at the 1968 Olympics in Mexico City, representing the United States.
Foreman then made history in 1973 by claiming the heavyweight world title with a decisive second-round knockout of Joe Frazier. Known for his immense strength and aggressive fighting style, his early boxing career was defined by dominance. However, a surprising loss to Muhammad Ali in the iconic 1974 “Rumble in the Jungle” led to a major shift in his life.
After retiring from boxing in 1977, Foreman pursued a spiritual path, becoming an ordained minister and opening a youth center in Houston. A decade later, he made an astonishing comeback, and in 1994, at age 45, he became the oldest heavyweight champion in history after defeating Michael Moorer.
Beyond Boxing: A Cultural Icon
While Foreman’s boxing achievements cemented his legacy, his post-retirement ventures made him a household name. He became widely recognized as the face of the George Foreman Grill, which sold over 100 million units worldwide and contributed to his business success.
Additionally, he authored multiple books, appeared in commercials, and became a motivational speaker and preacher. His remarkable life story was chronicled in the 2023 biopic Big George Foreman, which highlighted his journey from fame to spiritual transformation.
Despite his global recognition, Foreman remained deeply attached to his roots in Houston. In a 2016 interview with the Houston Chronicle, he expressed his affection for the city, saying, “I love this city. I really do.”
Source Information
This article is based on an official statement from George Foreman’s verified Instagram account, along with background details from past interviews with the Houston Chronicle, reports from the Associated Press, and public records documenting his boxing and business career.
