Legendary boxer and successful entrepreneur George Foreman has passed away, his family announced on Friday. The cause of his death has not been disclosed.
Foreman, who was 76 years old, was a two-time world heavyweight champion in his boxing career and also won a Gold medal at the 1968 Olympic Games in Mexico City. He was a true icon in the world of sports and business.
But Foreman was more than just a boxer and businessman. He was a devoted husband, a loving father, and a proud grandfather and great-grandfather. He lived a life guided by faith, humility, and purpose, and his legacy will continue to inspire generations to come.
In a statement shared on social media, Foreman’s family expressed their gratitude for the love and prayers they have received and asked for privacy as they honor the extraordinary life of their beloved family member.
Foreman’s family also highlighted his many achievements and contributions to society. He was not only a humanitarian and an Olympian, but also a two-time heavyweight champion of the world. He was deeply respected for his discipline, conviction, and his unwavering commitment to preserving his good name.
Born and raised in Texas, Foreman had a tough childhood and turned to street fighting at a young age. However, his life changed when he entered the Job Corps program and met Charles “Doc” Broadus, a boxing coach who encouraged him to pursue the sport. This decision would lead to a remarkable career that would make him a household name.
In 1968, Foreman made history by defeating Soviet Union amateur heavyweight boxer Jonas Čepulis in the gold medal final at the Olympic Games. He proudly waved the American flag, not just as a symbol of patriotism, but also as a statement of his identity and pride in being an American.
As a professional boxer, Foreman continued to achieve great success. In 1972, he defeated the undefeated and undisputed World Heavyweight Champion Joe Frazier in a match known as “The Sunshine Showdown.” This iconic match featured the famous call by sports broadcaster Howard Cosell, “Down goes Frazier!”
But perhaps the most memorable moment in Foreman’s boxing career was his fight against Muhammad Ali in 1974. Known as “The Rumble in the Jungle,” this match in Zaire became one of the most iconic sporting events in history. Although Foreman lost to Ali via a knockout in the eighth round, he showed incredible sportsmanship and respect for his opponent.
After retiring from boxing in 1977, Foreman became an ordained Christian minister in Texas. However, he couldn’t resist the call of the ring and returned to boxing at the age of 38 in 1987. In 1994, at the age of 45, he made history once again by defeating Michael Moorer and becoming the oldest heavyweight champion in history.
Sportscaster Jim Lampley, who called the match, recalled Foreman’s prediction that Moorer would stand in front of him and let him knock him out late in the fight. Lampley’s famous call, “It happened!” perfectly captured the moment.
Foreman’s success in the ring was matched by his success outside of it. He became known for his entrepreneurship, particularly for the George Foreman Lean Mean Fat-Reducing Grilling Machine. This electrical grill, which he proudly put his name on, became a household staple and brought in millions of dollars in revenue.
Foreman’s determination and perseverance were evident in both his boxing career and his business ventures. He once said, “When I came back to boxing, I had to sell a middle-aged man who could become heavyweight champion of the world. Nobody was buying it. But I kept selling it.” And he did just that, proving that anything is possible with hard work and determination.
Foreman is survived by his wife, Mary Joan Martelly, and his 11 children. His daughter Freeda Foreman, who also pursued a career in boxing, passed away in 2019. His legacy will continue to live on through his family and the countless lives he has touched through his inspiring journey.
George Foreman will always be remembered as a true champion, both in and out of the ring. He will be deeply missed but his legacy will continue to inspire and motivate generations to come. Rest in peace, champ.
