George Foreman, the legendary two-time world heavyweight champion and Olympic gold medalist, has passed away at the age of 76. His family confirmed his peaceful passing on March 21, 2025, stating he was “surrounded by loved ones.”
In a heartfelt Instagram post, the family wrote:
*”Our hearts are broken. With profound sorrow, we announce the passing of our beloved George Edward Foreman Sr., who peacefully departed on March 21, 2025, surrounded by loved ones.
“A devout preacher, a devoted husband, a loving father, and a proud grandfather and great-grandfather, he lived a life marked by unwavering faith, humility, and purpose.
“A humanitarian, an Olympian, and a two-time heavyweight champion of the world, he was deeply respected—a force for good, a man of discipline and conviction, and a protector of his legacy, fighting tirelessly to preserve his good name for his family.”*
A Storied Career in Boxing
Foreman rose to prominence after winning a gold medal at the 1968 Mexico City Olympics, setting the stage for a legendary professional boxing career. In 1973, he captured the world heavyweight title by knocking out Joe Frazier in the second round.
After suffering defeats to Muhammad Ali in 1974’s iconic “Rumble in the Jungle” and Jimmy Young in 1977, Foreman retired and became an ordained Christian minister.
However, his boxing journey wasn’t over. A decade later, he made a stunning comeback, and in 1994—at age 45—he knocked out 26-year-old Michael Moorer to reclaim the heavyweight title, becoming the oldest world champion in history.
In 1995, he defended his title against Axel Schulz before finally retiring in 1997 at age 48. Foreman ended his career with an impressive record: 76 wins, 68 by knockout, and just five losses. He was later inducted into both the International Boxing Hall of Fame and the World Boxing Hall of Fame.
An Outpouring of Tributes
As news of Foreman’s passing spread, tributes poured in from fans and fellow athletes.
One Twitter user wrote: “From knocking out opponents in the ring to winning hearts outside of it, George Foreman was a true icon. His legacy will live on through his achievements, wisdom, and of course, those famous grills.”
Another added: “A true legend. George Foreman wasn’t just a two-time heavyweight champ, he was the oldest to ever win the title at 45, and his grill sold over 100 million units. He punched hard and lived even bigger.”
A third commented: “My heartfelt condolences to his family, friends, and fans. He was a legend—two-time world heavyweight champion, Olympic gold medalist, entrepreneur, and preacher. Rest in peace, Big Champ.”
Foreman’s family concluded their statement with gratitude: “We are grateful for the outpouring of love and prayers and kindly ask for privacy as we honor the extraordinary life of a man we were blessed to call our own.”
