Boxing Legend George Foreman Passes Away at Age 76

Houston – Former heavyweight boxing champion George Foreman, known for his thunderous punches and iconic comeback, passed away on Friday, March 21, 2025, at the age of 76. His family shared the news with deep sorrow on social media, stating that Foreman “peacefully departed surrounded by loved ones.”

Foreman, who famously reclaimed the heavyweight title at the age of 45, is remembered as one of boxing’s most formidable figures. Born in Marshall, Texas, on January 10, 1949, he grew up in poverty in Houston, where he overcame a troubled youth, dropping out of junior high school, and eventually turning his life around through boxing. His rise from the streets to global recognition became a symbol of perseverance and self-improvement.

A two-time world heavyweight champion, Foreman made his mark on the sport in 1974 when he faced Muhammad Ali in the legendary “Rumble in the Jungle” in Kinshasa, Zaire. Despite losing to Ali in a stunning upset, Foreman would go on to become an even more beloved figure when he made a remarkable return to the ring two decades later. In 1994, at the age of 45, Foreman knocked out Michael Moorer to reclaim the heavyweight title, making him the oldest-ever heavyweight champion.

His post-boxing career was equally impressive, with Foreman becoming a successful entrepreneur. Perhaps most famously, he became the face of the George Foreman Grill, which made him a household name in the 1990s. The endorsement deal earned him a fortune, with the company paying him $137.5 million in 1999 for using his name on various products.

Foreman’s story of redemption was also tied to his faith. After retiring from boxing in 1977, he became an ordained minister in the Church of the Lord Jesus Christ, before making a shocking return to the ring in the late 1980s. Throughout his career, Foreman’s larger-than-life personality and relentless work ethic earned him admiration both inside and outside the boxing world.

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Houston Mayor John Whitmire honored Foreman’s legacy, saying, “George’s journey from the streets of Fifth Ward to boxing and business success was an inspiration. He never forgot where he came from […] Houston will forever be proud to call George Foreman one of our own.”

Foreman leaves behind a large family, including five sons—all named George—and a legacy of determination, resilience, and self-improvement. His death marks the end of an era for boxing fans and for those inspired by his incredible life journey.

Foreman’s professional boxing record stands at 76 wins and 5 losses, and his contributions to both sports and business will continue to resonate for generations to come.