FAIRGAMEZ News
Boxing Legend George Foreman Dies at 76; Two-Time Heavyweight Champion and Cultural Icon Leaves Lasting Legacy
George Foreman, the legendary two-time world heavyweight champion who etched his name into sports history with the iconic Rumble in the Jungle bout against Muhammad Ali, has died at the age of 76. His family and publicist confirmed his passing on Friday, March 21, 2025.
Foreman’s family shared the news in a heartfelt statement posted to Instagram:
“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. 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.”
Known as “Big George” by fans, friends, and family, Foreman rose to prominence with his dominance in the boxing ring. He first gained international recognition by winning a gold medal in the heavyweight division at the 1968 Olympics in Mexico City. In 1973, he captured the world heavyweight title by defeating Joe Frazier in a stunning performance remembered for Howard Cosell’s electrifying commentary: “Down goes Frazier!”
The following year, Foreman stepped into the ring with Muhammad Ali in Kinshasa, Zaire, for what would become one of boxing’s most iconic events: The Rumble in the Jungle. Although Foreman entered the match as the heavy favorite, Ali knocked him out in the eighth round, handing Foreman his first professional loss and solidifying Ali’s legacy as “The Greatest.”
Foreman went on to defeat Frazier again in 1976 but retired from boxing in 1977 after a loss to Jimmy Young. Ten years later, at age 38, Foreman shocked the sports world by returning to the ring. He won 12 consecutive bouts before facing Evander Holyfield in 1991, where he lost by unanimous decision.
Refusing to be counted out, Foreman staged one of boxing’s greatest comebacks. In 1994, at 45 years old, he defeated 26-year-old Michael Moorer to claim the WBA and IBF titles, becoming the oldest fighter ever to win a world heavyweight championship. He relinquished his titles at age 46 and retired for good in 1997, finishing his career with an impressive 76-5 record and 68 knockouts.
In 2003, Foreman was inducted into both the World Boxing Hall of Fame and the International Boxing Hall of Fame. Widely regarded as one of the 25 greatest boxers in history, his legacy extended beyond the sport.
Foreman became a household name thanks to the wildly successful George Foreman Grill, introduced in 1994. As the product’s spokesman, he helped sell over 100 million units worldwide in just 25 years, earning a new generation of fans and solidifying his place in pop culture.
In addition to his achievements in the ring and business world, Foreman was also an author, ordained minister, and inspirational figure known for his charisma and faith.
He is survived by his wife, Mary Joan Martelly, and their 12 children — five sons and seven daughters. In a signature move that reflected his sense of humor and pride, Foreman named all five of his sons George Edward Foreman so “they would always have something in common.”
George Foreman leaves behind an enduring legacy of strength, resilience, and reinvention.