George Foreman, the legendary two-time heavyweight boxing champion and Olympic gold medalist, has died at the age of 76. His family confirmed the news in an emotional statement on March 21, 2025, remembering him as a “humanitarian, an Olympian, and a protector of his legacy.”
Born on January 10, 1949, in Marshall, Texas, Foreman overcame a troubled childhood to become one of the greatest boxers in history. He first made his mark on the international stage at the 1968 Mexico City Olympics, where he won a gold medal in the heavyweight division. That victory propelled him into professional boxing, where he quickly built a reputation as a fearsome puncher.
In 1973, Foreman captured the world heavyweight title with a stunning second-round knockout of Joe Frazier. A year later, he faced Muhammad Ali in the legendary “Rumble in the Jungle,” a fight that remains one of the most iconic moments in sports history. Despite dominating early, Foreman was defeated by Ali’s famous “rope-a-dope” strategy, losing by knockout in the eighth round.
Foreman retired from boxing in 1977 but made an unprecedented comeback a decade later. In 1994, at the age of 45, he shocked the world by defeating Michael Moorer to reclaim the heavyweight title, becoming the oldest champion in the division’s history.
Beyond his boxing career, Foreman became a household name through his business ventures, most notably the George Foreman Grill, which sold over 100 million units worldwide. His affable personality and sharp business acumen made him one of the most successful athlete-entrepreneurs of all time.
Foreman is survived by his wife, Mary Joan Martelly, and his 12 children, including five sons, all named George. His influence on the sport and his legacy as an athlete, businessman, and mentor will be remembered for generations.
