We are deeply saddened to confirm that the boxing legend George Foreman, who captured the imagination of fans as both a fearsome young champion and a beloved comeback star in his 40s, has passed away at the age of 76. Foreman, an Olympic gold medalist at the 1968 Mexico City Games, was initially feared for his devastating punching power. He became the heavyweight champion at 24 by stunning Joe Frazier in 1973 and later reclaimed the title at age 45 when he knocked out Michael Moorer in 1994.
Foreman’s first championship reign hit a roadblock in 1974 when Muhammad Ali outmaneuvered him in the “Rumble in the Jungle,” employing the now-famous “Rope-A-Dope” tactic. The loss sent Foreman into an emotional spiral, but he remained a formidable force, engaging in wild wars like his 1976 bout against Ron Lyle before abruptly retiring following a defeat to Jimmy Young in 1977. He spent the subsequent years preaching as an ordained minister, attributing his spiritual transformation to visions he says he experienced after the Young fight.
Financial strains brought Foreman back to the ring a decade later, and fans were treated to a calmer, older-but-still-powerful version of “Big George.” He gave Evander Holyfield all he could handle in a 1991 title clash, then surprised the world by landing the perfect right hand to dethrone Moorer at age 45. Beyond the ring, Foreman charmed a new generation with his George Foreman Grill, commercials for automotive services, and even brief TV stints.
Foreman remained quick-witted well into his final years, frequently reflecting on his many fights, including his storied clashes with Ali and Ken Norton. He was close to his large family - naming all five of his sons George - and stayed on good terms with past rival Ali, forging a friendship that spanned decades. In a statement, promoter Bob Arum remembered Foreman as “a great friend,” while longtime broadcast colleague Jim Lampley called his passing “a massive loss” and said, “He’s with Ali now, and they are at peace with each other.”
Image Credit: Sky Sports