George Foreman, the two-time heavyweight world champion and global icon, has passed away at the age of 76. Surrounded by family, Foreman died peacefully, as confirmed in a heartfelt statement issued by his family on his official Instagram page. The message celebrated the life of a man defined by unwavering faith, discipline, and a lasting legacy both inside and outside the boxing ring.
Foreman rose to fame as a dominant force in boxing, capturing his first heavyweight title in 1973 with a second-round knockout of then-undefeated Joe Frazier. The win solidified his reputation as a fearsome competitor, but his career took a dramatic turn with his historic defeat to Muhammad Ali in the iconic “Rumble in the Jungle” in 1974. After retiring in 1977 to pursue a calling as an ordained Christian minister, Foreman made a triumphant return to the sport a decade later.
In 1994, at the age of 45, Foreman made history by becoming the oldest man to win a heavyweight title, defeating 26-year-old Michael Moorer with a stunning knockout. This remarkable achievement earned him a place among the greats of boxing history. Foreman retired for good in 1997 with an impressive professional record of 76 wins, including 68 by knockout, and only 5 losses.
An icon even far from the ring
Beyond his achievements in the ring, Foreman was a successful entrepreneur and cultural icon. The George Foreman Grill, his best-selling kitchen appliance, became a household name, with over 100 million units sold worldwide. Foreman sold the commercial rights to the grill in 1999 for $138 million, cementing his status as a savvy businessman.
Foreman’s influence extended beyond sports and business. Known as a devout preacher, humanitarian, and family man, he was a father to twelve children, including five sons, all named George, and seven daughters. His dedication to his faith and family remained central to his life even as he gained worldwide fame.
A member of the International Boxing Hall of Fame, Foreman was also named one of the 25 greatest fighters of the past 80 years by The Ring magazine and ranked among the sport’s greatest punchers. His impact as an analyst and commentator during his 12-year stint with HBO further demonstrated his enduring connection to boxing.
George Foreman’s passing marks the end of an extraordinary life that spanned the worlds of sports, faith, and business. As fans and admirers reflect on his legacy, he will be remembered not only as a legendary boxer but also as a man of conviction and purpose, whose influence reached far beyond the ring.
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