George Foreman, the two-time heavyweight world champion and global icon, has died at 76 years old. The boxing legend passed away peacefully, surrounded by his family.
Foreman's official Instagram page confirmed the news with a statement. His family celebrated his life, which they said was defined by unwavering faith, discipline, and a lasting legacy.
The man known as "Big George" first won the heavyweight title in 1973 when he knocked out Joe Frazier in the second round. He lost the belt to Muhammad Ali in 1974 in the famous "Rumble in the Jungle" fight. After that defeat, Foreman retired in 1977 and became an ordained Christian minister.
Foreman made a comeback to boxing in the late 1980s. He shocked the world in 1994 when, at 45 years old, he knocked out Michael Moorer to reclaim the heavyweight title. This made him the oldest man to win the heavyweight championship.
When he finally hung up his gloves in 1997, Foreman had racked up an impressive record of 76 wins (68 by knockout) and just 5 losses. The Ring magazine named him one of the 25 greatest fighters of the past 80 years, and he's widely considered one of the sport's hardest punchers.
Outside the ring, Foreman became a successful businessman. He sold over 100 million units of the George Foreman Grill worldwide. In 1999, he sold the commercial rights to the grill for a whopping $138 million.
"I don't even think about boxing anymore," Foreman once said. "It's all about preaching, teaching and helping people."
Foreman's life after boxing showed his diverse talents. He worked as an analyst and commentator for HBO for 12 years. He was also known for his large family, with 12 children including five sons all named George.
The International Boxing Hall of Fame inducted Foreman, cementing his place among the sport's greats. But his influence went far beyond boxing. He became a cultural icon, a successful entrepreneur, and a devout preacher.
Foreman's journey from a feared boxer to a beloved public figure showed his ability to reinvent himself. He proved that second acts in life are possible, becoming as famous for his grill as he was for his powerful punches.
George Foreman's passing marks the end of an era in boxing and American culture. He will be remembered not just as a legendary fighter, but as a man of conviction and purpose whose influence reached far beyond the ring.
