Boxing legend George Foreman dead at 76

George Foreman Sr. Former heavyweight champion George Foreman Sr. poses for a portrait during the Television Critics Association summer press tour in Beverly Hills, Calif. on Wednesday, July 9, 2008. Foreman stars in the upcoming TV Land series "Family Foreman". (AP Photo/ Matt Sayles) (Matt Sayles/ASSOCIATED PRESS)

Boxing legend George Foreman died at the age of 76.

His family announced the news on Friday night. “Our hearts are broken. With profound sorrow, we announce the passing of our beloved George Edward Foreman Sr., who peacefully departed on March 21, 2025, surrounded by loved ones,” they wrote on Instagram. “A devout preacher, a devoted husband, a loving father, and a proud grand- and great-grandfather, he lived a life marked by unwavering faith, humility, and purpose.”

Big George burst onto the scene in 1968 at the Summer Olympics in Mexico City where he won a gold medal. Shortly after he turned pro. In 1973, George defeated then-undefeated heavyweight champ, Joe Frazier, securing his first title.

After defending the belt twice, George, 25 years old and unbeaten, faced Muhammad Ali in 1974 in “The Rumble In The Jungle,” in Zaire. Ali shocked Foreman, winning by 8th-round TKO. Years later, the two became best friends.

In 1977, George retired, became an ordained minister, and dedicated his life to God. After a 10-year hiatus from boxing, he announced his comeback at nearly 40 years old in 1988.

In 1994, at the age of 45, George once again became heavyweight champion, defeating 26-year-old Michael Moorer and making history, becoming the oldest heavyweight champion in the sport’s history.

In 1997, with a record of 76-5 (68 KOs), George Foreman retired for good as one of the greatest to ever grace a ring.

Big George was also the face of the iconic George Foreman Lean Mean Fat-Reducing Grilling Machine, which made him a fortune, over $138 million when he sold the naming rights to Salton, Inc.

No cause of death was provided by his family but reports say he died of natural causes in Houston.

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