George Foreman dies at 76: Heavyweight boxing legend, famous entrepreneur leaves ‘big’ legacy
George Foreman, who was larger than life in many respects, captured the hearts and thoughts of sports fans and became a fixture on the kitchen counters of many American households. According to his family and publicist, Foreman, a two-time heavyweight champion, novelist, minister, and businessman, passed away on Friday at the age of 76.
“We have broken hearts. On Instagram, Foreman’s family posted, “With deep sadness, we announce the demise of our beloved George Edward Foreman Sr. who peacefully died on March 21, 2025, surrounded by loved ones.” “He led a life distinguished by unshakeable faith, humility, and purpose. He was a proud grand and great grandfather, a loving father, a dedicated husband, and a faithful preacher.”
Family, friends, and fans all loved “Big George,” who was best known for being a boxing champion. Before defeating Joe Frazier in Jamaica to win his first professional heavyweight title in 1973, he took home the heavyweight gold medal from the 1968 Mexico City Olympics. Howard Cosell is famous for saying, “Down goes Frazier!” during the Foreman-dominated bout.
In 1974, he then faced Muhammad Ali in a fight that became known as “The Rumble in the Jungle.” As the overwhelming favorite in Zaire, Foreman lost for the first time in his career, losing to Ali via knockout in the eighth round. The bout, which at the time was one of the most viewed broadcast events in history, helped Ali earn the nickname “The Greatest.”
