Foreman's career was filled with notable achievements. He won his first heavyweight world championship in 1973 by knocking out Joe Frazier. He went on to defend his title successfully against Jose Roman and Ken Norton, both fights ending in early stoppages.
But it was in 1974 that Foreman faced his greatest challenge. He stepped into the ring with Muhammad Ali for the legendary "Rumble In The Jungle" in Kinshasa, Zaire. Despite being a 4-1 favorite, Foreman suffered his first professional defeat in this bout.
Ali used his famous "rope-a-dope" technique during the fight. He put his back to the ropes, shelled up to force Foreman to use energy, and fired back when possible to sap Foreman's strength. In the eighth round, Ali pounced with a combination that put Foreman down, and the referee stopped the fight.
Foreman retired in 1977 after losing to Jimmy Young in a tune-up fight before a planned rematch with Ali. However, he made a remarkable comeback in 1994, becoming the oldest heavyweight world champion at 45 years old by defeating Michael Moorer.
Despite his fearsome reputation and fearless attitude in the ring, Foreman has shown humility in his recent statement about Ali. He said:
"Once in the ring with the great Ali was enough for me. If I'd changed my approach back then he'd [have] another plan. Nothing beats some fighters but time."
Foreman's words show a deep respect for Ali's skills and adaptability. They also highlight the unique challenge Ali presented, one that Foreman feels he couldn't have overcome no matter what strategy he employed.