Former heavyweight boxing champion George Foreman, a towering figure in the sport’s history, died peacefully on March 21, 2025, surrounded by loved ones, his family announced.
He was 76 years old.
“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,” Foreman’s family said in a statement posted on the boxer’s official Instagram page.
Born in Texas on January 10, 1949, Foreman rose from humble beginnings to become one of boxing’s most influential and recognizable figures. After a troubled youth, he found direction through boxing at age 16, culminating in an Olympic gold medal at the 1968 Mexico Games.
Foreman’s professional career was defined by two remarkable chapters.
In his first incarnation, the intimidating “Big George” demolished Joe Frazier in two rounds to claim the heavyweight title before losing it to Muhammad Ali in the historic 1974 “Rumble in the Jungle” in Kinshasa.
Following that defeat, Foreman retired at 28 to become an ordained minister.
His second chapter began with an improbable comeback at age 38.
After a decade away from the ring, Foreman mounted what many consider boxing’s greatest comeback, culminating in his reclaiming the heavyweight championship at 45 by knocking out Michael Moorer in 1994, becoming the oldest heavyweight champion in history.
Beyond boxing, Foreman found tremendous success with his eponymous George Foreman Grill, which sold over 100 million units worldwide. He later sold the commercial rights for $138 million.
Tributes poured in from across the sports world for the late boxer.
Mike Tyson tweeted: “Condolences to George Foreman’s family. His contribution to boxing and beyond will never be forgotten.”
Scottie Pippen added: “Rest in peace, George Foreman. Your legacy lives on, champ. ️”
Turki Alalshikh called him “The last boxing pillar for an unforgettable era.”
Foreman’s legacy includes a professional record of 76 wins (68 by knockout) and 5 losses. He is survived by his 12 children, including five sons all named George Edward.
