Boxing Legend and Entrepreneur George Foreman Passes Away

George Foreman, the iconic two-time heavyweight boxing champion and entrepreneur, has passed away at the age of 76. His family shared the news on Instagram, celebrating his multifaceted life as a “devout preacher, a devoted husband, a loving father, and a proud grand and great grandfather.” They emphasized his strong faith and unwavering commitment to his family.

Foreman’s life journey was remarkable, transitioning from the streets of Houston to Olympic glory, and later finding success as a businessman. He became a household name thanks to the George Foreman Grill, which revolutionized cooking in American kitchens. Foreman first gained prominence in the boxing world during the 1968 Mexico City Olympics, where he clinched a gold medal in the heavyweight division.

His professional debut in 1969 led to a meteoric rise, culminating in a striking victory over Joe Frazier in 1973, where he knocked Frazier down six times within two rounds to capture the heavyweight title. However, his first reign came to a swift end when he lost to Muhammad Ali in the famed “Rumble in the Jungle” in 1974.

After a period of reflection following his defeat to Jimmy Young in 1977, Foreman embraced a spiritual transformation, retiring from boxing to become an ordained minister. He founded the Church of the Lord Jesus Christ in Houston and dedicated himself to supporting underprivileged youths through community programs.

In a surprising comeback at 38, Foreman returned to the boxing ring amidst financial struggles and ultimately reclaimed the heavyweight championship in 1994 by defeating Michael Moorer, becoming the oldest heavyweight champion in history at 45 years old.

While his boxing accomplishments are legendary, Foreman achieved remarkable financial success with his grill brand, which has reportedly earned him more than his boxing career ever did. He leaves behind a large family, including his wife, Mary Joan Martelly, and 12 children, five of whom share his name.

With a professional boxing record of 76 wins and 5 losses, including 68 knockouts, Foreman’s impact on the sport was solidified with his induction into the International Boxing Hall of Fame in 2003. His legacy extends far beyond the ring, touching lives in many different arenas.