George Foreman, the legendary two-time world heavyweight boxing champion and Olympic gold medalist, has passed away at the age of 76. He died peacefully on March 21, 2025, surrounded by his family.
Born on January 10, 1949, in Marshall, Texas, Foreman rose to prominence by securing a gold medal in the heavyweight division at the 1968 Mexico City Olympics. He turned professional in 1969 and quickly made his mark by winning the world heavyweight title in 1973 with a stunning second-round knockout of the then-undefeated Joe Frazier. Foreman defended his title successfully before facing Muhammad Ali in the historic “Rumble in the Jungle” in 1974, where he suffered his first professional loss.
After a brief retirement in 1977, during which he became an ordained minister and established the George Foreman Youth and Community Center, Foreman made a remarkable comeback to boxing in 1987. In 1994, at the age of 45, he regained the heavyweight title by defeating Michael Moorer, becoming the oldest heavyweight champion in history.
Beyond the boxing ring, Foreman achieved significant success as an entrepreneur, most notably with the George Foreman Grill, which sold over 100 million units worldwide. He reportedly earned over $200 million from the product, surpassing his boxing earnings.
Foreman is survived by his wife, Mary Joan Martelly, whom he married in 1985, and his 12 children. Notably, he named all five of his sons George: George Jr., George III (“Monk”), George IV (“Big Wheel”), George V (“Red”), and George VI (“Little Joey”). He explained that this naming tradition was to ensure they always had something in common.
Tributes have poured in from around the world, with fellow boxing legend Mike Tyson expressing his condolences and admiration for Foreman’s legacy.
Foreman’s life was marked by his unwavering faith, humility, and dedication to both his family and community. His legacy as a champion, entrepreneur, and humanitarian will continue to inspire future generations.#newsafro_
