LOS ANGELES – George Foreman, the larger-than-life two-time heavyweight boxing champion, Olympic gold medalist, minister, and entrepreneur, died Friday at age 76, his family announced. Known as much for his powerful presence in the ring as for his faith and humility outside of it, Foreman passed away peacefully on March 21, surrounded by loved ones. His family shared the news in a heartfelt Instagram post, calling him “a force for good” who lived a life of “unwavering faith, humility, and purpose.”
“They described him as ‘a devout preacher, a devoted husband, a loving father, and a proud grandfather and great grandfather,’ and called him ‘a force for good, a man of discipline, conviction, and a protector of his legacy.’ How George Foreman became a boxing legend The back story: Born and raised in Houston’s Fifth Ward, George Foreman rose from humble beginnings to become one of the most respected names in sports history. He first gained national attention by winning a gold medal at the 1968 Olympics in Mexico City, representing the U.S. in the heavyweight division. He went on to claim the heavyweight world title in 1973, famously defeating Joe Frazier with a dominant second-round knockout. Foreman’s early boxing career was marked by his power and intensity, but after a shocking loss to Muhammad Ali in 1974’s iconic ‘Rumble in the Jungle,’ Foreman’s life took a spiritual turn.”
George Foreman attended the premiere of “Big George Foreman” at Regal L.A. Live in Los Angeles, California on April 26, 2023. After retiring in 1977, he became an ordained minister and opened a youth center in Houston. Foreman made a memorable return to boxing a decade later, achieving one of the sport’s most remarkable comebacks. At the age of 45, he made history by becoming the oldest heavyweight champion ever when he defeated Michael Moorer in 1994.
While Foreman was revered as a fighter, his post-boxing career catapulted him into the limelight and made him a household name. He became the face of the George Foreman Grill, which has sold over 100 million units worldwide, contributing to the establishment of a successful business empire. Apart from his culinary venture, Foreman also authored several books, featured in commercials, and shared his life journey as a preacher and motivational speaker. In 2023, his remarkable life story was portrayed in the biopic “Big George Foreman,” capturing his journey of rise, fall, and spiritual reawakening. Throughout his endeavors, Foreman remained deeply attached to his hometown of Houston, expressing his affection by stating, “I love this city,” in an interview with the Houston Chronicle in 2016.
