George Foreman Death: The boxing world is saying goodbye to the great George Foreman who has passed away at 76. He was a powerhouse and a warrior. One of the greatest boxers of all time. He won Olympic gold in 1968 and was a 2 time world heavyweight champion 21 years apart, the oldest heavyweight champion in history at 45.
George Foreman Death and Legacy
His family announced his passing on Instagram and said he was “a devoted husband, loving father and proud grandfather.” The cause of death has not been released but tributes are coming in from all over the sports world. Mike Tyson called him “a legend whose contributions to boxing and beyond will never be forgotten.” The Ring magazine, often referred to as the “Bible of Boxing” called him “one of the greatest heavyweights of all time.”
A Life of Greatness
Born January 10, 1949 in Marshall, Texas, Foreman grew up in poverty and turned to boxing after a troubled youth. He was a natural and won the heavyweight gold medal at the 1968 Olympics in Mexico City. He turned pro and won 37 in a row before winning the world heavyweight title in 1973 by defeating the undefeated Joe Frazier.
His most famous fight was in 1974 when he fought Muhammad Ali in the “Rumble in the Jungle” in Kinshasa, Zaire (now the Democratic Republic of the Congo). Ali used his famous “rope-a-dope” to tire Foreman out before knocking him out in the 8th round. Foreman later said it was the “best thing that ever happened” to him because it led him to find himself and his faith.
Retire, Comeback, and Historic Second Title Win
After his second pro loss Foreman retired in 1977 and became a ordained minister in Texas. His love for preaching led him to start the Church of the Lord Jesus Christ where he devoted himself to his faith and community work.
In 1987 Foreman made a surprise comeback to boxing to raise funds for his youth center. Many thought he was crazy but he proved them wrong winning 24 fights before challenging Evander Holyfield for the heavyweight title in 1991. He lost but three years later he shocked the world by beating Michael Moorer in 1994. At 45 he became the oldest heavyweight champion in history.
Beyond Boxing: Business Success and Cultural Impact
Outside the ring Foreman made a fortune with his business ventures. His most famous investment was the George Foreman Grill which launched in 1994 and sold over 100 million units worldwide. His “Lean Mean Grilling Machine” became a household name and made him more money than he ever made boxing.
He was also a family man. Married 5 times, 12 kids, 5 of them George. He told me he named them after himself so they would “always have something in common.”
George Foreman’s Impact on Boxing and Life
Foreman’s influence went beyond the ring. He was humble, disciplined and faithful. A role model for boxers but for anyone overcoming adversity.
He’s gone but his impact on boxing and pop culture will never be erased. Fans, athletes and historians will continue to celebrate his journey from troubled youth to Olympic champion, world heavyweight champion, preacher, entrepreneur and global icon.
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