George Foreman, the two-time heavyweight boxing champion, Olympic gold medalist, minister, and entrepreneur, passed away on Friday at the age of 76, his family announced. Known for his powerful presence in the ring and his unwavering faith outside of it, Foreman died peacefully on March 21, surrounded by loved ones.
His family shared the news in a heartfelt Instagram post, describing him as “a force for good” who lived a life of “unwavering faith, humility, and purpose.” They remembered him as “a devout preacher, a devoted husband, a loving father, and a proud grand and great-grandfather.”
Born and raised in Houston’s Fifth Ward, Foreman rose from humble beginnings to become one of the most respected figures in sports history. He first gained national attention by winning a gold medal at the 1968 Olympics in Mexico City, representing the U.S. in the heavyweight division.
In 1973, he claimed the heavyweight world title in a dominant second-round knockout against Joe Frazier. His raw power and relentless style made him one of boxing’s most feared fighters. However, his shocking loss to Muhammad Ali in the legendary 1974 “Rumble in the Jungle” marked a turning point in his life.
Foreman retired in 1977 and became an ordained minister, dedicating himself to faith and youth outreach in Houston. A decade later, he made an improbable return to boxing. In 1994, at age 45, he became the oldest heavyweight champion in history by defeating Michael Moorer.
While Foreman’s achievements in the ring were historic, his post-boxing career turned him into a cultural icon. He became the face of the George Foreman Grill, which sold over 100 million units worldwide, cementing his status as a successful entrepreneur.
He also authored books, appeared in commercials, and inspired audiences as a preacher and motivational speaker. In 2023, his incredible journey was chronicled in the biopic Big George Foreman, highlighting his rise, fall, and spiritual rebirth.
Through it all, Foreman remained deeply connected to his hometown. “I love this city,” he told the Houston Chronicle in 2016. “I really do.”
