George Foreman, the boxing legend, died peacefully on March 21 at the age of 76. His family announced the news on Foreman's official Instagram page with a heartfelt statement celebrating his life, faith, discipline, and lasting legacy.
Foreman left an indelible mark on the sport of boxing. He won his first heavyweight title in 1973 with a second-round knockout of Joe Frazier. The following year, he faced Muhammad Ali in the iconic "Rumble in the Jungle" match, which ended in a defeat for Foreman.
In 1977, Foreman stepped away from boxing to become an ordained Christian minister. He made a triumphant return to the ring a decade later, proving he still had what it took to compete at the highest level.
Outside the ring, Foreman was a family man with 10 children – five sons and five daughters. He named all his sons George Edward Foreman, a decision he explained in a 2021 interview with Graham Bensinger:
"I wanted them to have something in common ... I tell them if one goes up, we all go up. If one gets in trouble, we're all in trouble."
Foreman's approach to parenting was both unique and demanding. He told his sons:
"Either live up to the name or change it."
Despite the pressure that came with sharing their father's name, Foreman took pride in his children's accomplishments. In a 2021 interview with CBN, he said:
"They've gone on, some of them, to stand the test, to get college education, and that's the hardest thing in the world to achieve; but most of all they're good parents, and that's what I'm proud of."
Some of Foreman's children followed in his footsteps, pursuing careers in boxing or working for his businesses. Sadly, his daughter Freeda passed away before him.
Foreman's impact extended far beyond his family and the boxing world. He was known as a dominant force and fearsome competitor in the ring, but his influence outside of boxing will be remembered just as fondly. His journey from world champion to minister and back again showed his versatility and determination.
The boxing community and fans worldwide will miss George Foreman, a man who lived life on his own terms and left behind a legacy that will inspire generations to come.
