As the world mourns the passing of two-time world heavyweight champion George Foreman, fans are also reflecting on the wisdom, humor, and inspiration he left behind—not just in the ring, but in life. Known for his powerful punches and later for his equally powerful words, Foreman often used his voice to motivate, reflect, and entertain. Here are some of George Foreman’s most popular and iconic quotes that continue to resonate.
One of Foreman’s most famous lines—“The question isn’t at what age I want to retire, it’s at what income”—perfectly captured his savvy transition from boxing champion to successful entrepreneur. This quote often resurfaces in discussions about athletes’ post-retirement careers, especially given the multi-million-dollar success of the George Foreman Grill, which reportedly earned him over $200 million.
Foreman was also known for his reflections on life and resilience. “I don’t even think about a retirement program because I’m working for the Lord, for the Almighty. That’s eternal.” This quote showcases his deep religious beliefs and how faith shaped his worldview, especially following his dramatic personal transformation after retiring from boxing the first time.
A more humorous side of Foreman emerged with quotes like, “I named all my sons George Edward Foreman so they would always have something in common.” The quote became a pop culture staple, as many were amused to learn that Foreman named all five of his sons after himself, a fact he always mentioned with pride and a smile.
When asked about success, Foreman once said, “The world is full of people who are very clever at seeming much smarter than they really are. The real trick is to be smarter than you seem.” This quote has often been used in motivational contexts and business circles as a reminder to focus on substance over style.
Perhaps one of his most grounded quotes came in the context of competition: “A hero is someone right who doesn’t change.” It captured Foreman’s philosophy about staying true to values, whether inside the ring or out in the world.
George Foreman’s words, like his punches, had weight. As fans across generations remember him not only as a world-class boxer but also as a preacher, businessman, and motivational figure, these quotes serve as enduring pieces of his legacy.
