George Foreman, known in the ring as Big George, has left us at the age of 76, as announced by his family. He achieved fame as a heavyweight champion, winning gold at the 1968 Olympics in Mexico City. Born on January 10, 1949, in Marshall, Texas, Foreman's boxing journey began in the 1960s. He dazzled fans by winning 35 of his 37 early professional fights by knockout.
In 1973, he achieved his first world heavyweight championship after defeating the undefeated Joe Frazier. However, it was his infamous 1974 bout with Muhammad Ali in the Rumble in the Jungle that defined his career. Despite losing, Foreman considered the experience transformative, helping him grow personally and spiritually.
After walking away from boxing in 1977 to embrace religion, Foreman became an ordained minister and started the George Foreman Youth and Community Center, finding fulfillment in giving back. In 1987, he made an impressive comeback to the boxing world, winning multiple matches and securing the title of the oldest heavyweight champion at age 45 in 1994.
Beyond boxing, his popular George Foreman Grill skyrocketed him into a new venture. Foreman has 12 children, among them five sons who share his name, symbolizing their bond. Active in ministry until his passing, he leaves behind a legacy of perseverance, faith, and impact.