Legend George Foreman dies aged 76

Houston, Texas - The world of boxing has lost one of its most beloved and enduring figures. George Foreman, the two-time heavyweight champion and Olympic gold medalist, has passed away at the age of 76. His family confirmed the news Tuesday afternoon, marking the end of an era in the sport and beyond.

Foreman was more than a boxer. He was a larger-than-life figure who transcended generations—first as a fearsome knockout artist in the 1970s, and later as an improbable comeback king and a pitchman whose name became as familiar in kitchens as it was in boxing circles.

Born on January 10, 1949, in Marshall, Texas, Foreman's journey from troubled youth to global icon was as dramatic and inspirational as any in sports history. He first captured the world's attention by winning a gold medal in the 1968 Olympics in Mexico City, waving a small American flag in the ring—an image that became iconic during a time of national upheaval.

Turning professional shortly afterward, Foreman bulldozed his way through the heavyweight ranks with a terrifying combination of size, strength, and aggression. In 1973, he stunned the boxing world by demolishing the undefeated Joe Frazier in two brutal rounds to become the heavyweight champion of the world.

But perhaps no fight defined Foreman more—at least in his early career—than his legendary bout against Muhammad Ali in the 1974 "Rumble in the Jungle". Held in Zaire (now the Democratic Republic of Congo), the fight saw Ali use his now-famous "rope-a-dope" strategy to exhaust the younger, stronger Foreman before stopping him in the eighth round. It was a humbling defeat, and one that would send Foreman into a long spiral of reflection, eventually leading to a deep personal and spiritual transformation.

After a loss to Jimmy Young in 1977, Foreman experienced a religious awakening and left boxing altogether, becoming an ordained minister. For ten years, he focused on preaching, community work, and raising his growing family.

Then, in one of the most unlikely comebacks in sports history, Foreman returned to the ring in 1987—older, heavier, and smiling. Initially dismissed as a novelty, Foreman shocked skeptics with a series of wins and a new, more relaxed boxing style that relied on timing, toughness, and raw power.

His fairy tale comeback peaked in 1994, when at the age of 45, he knocked out Michael Moorer to reclaim the heavyweight championship—20 years after losing it. With that win, Foreman became the oldest heavyweight champion in history, a record that still stands.

Outside the ring, Foreman's charisma and reinvention continued. He became a beloved television personality and perhaps more famously, the face behind the wildly successful George Foreman Grill, a venture that earned him far more than his boxing career ever had. He reportedly sold the rights to his name for over $100 million.

In his later years, Foreman remained active in the boxing world, offering commentary, mentoring young fighters, and sharing his wisdom with humor and humility. He authored several books, remained close with fans, and was widely regarded as one of the sport’s kindest and most genuine ambassadors.

Foreman’s death has sparked tributes from across the globe. Promoters, fighters, fans, and celebrities alike have taken to social media to share memories and express condolences. Boxing greats like Mike Tyson and Lennox Lewis have called him a “legend” and a “gentle giant,” remembering not just the punches he threw, but the character he embodied.

George Foreman is survived by his wife Mary Joan and his children, including his five sons—all named George. True to his humor and unique personality, Foreman once said, “I named all my sons George Edward Foreman so they would always have something in common. I say to them, ‘If one of us goes up, then we all go up together.’”

Indeed, George Foreman has gone up. His legacy will live on as a symbol of second chances, resilience, and the extraordinary power of personal reinvention.

Rest in peace, champ. The ring won’t be the same without you.