March 21, 2025 – George Edward Foreman, one of the greatest boxers in history, has passed away at the age of 76. The legendary athlete, businessman, minister, and author died peacefully in Houston, Texas, surrounded by his loved ones.
In a statement released by his family, they expressed their profound sorrow: “Our hearts are broken. With profound sorrow, we announce the passing of our beloved George Edward Foreman Sr. who peacefully departed on March 21, 2025 surrounded by loved ones.”
Born on January 10, 1949, in Marshall, Texas, Foreman was known to the world as “Big George.” His boxing career spanned from 1967 to 1997, during which time he earned two world heavyweight titles, became an Olympic gold medalist, and etched his name as one of the most dominant fighters in the history of the sport. With a record of 76 wins (68 by knockout) and only five losses, Foreman was a force in the ring. He was also a devoted family man, a devout preacher, and a loving father.
“We find solace in knowing he is now at peace with his Lord and Savior Jesus Christ whom he so passionately shared with the world,” his family said. A devout Christian, Foreman’s faith was central to his life. After his first retirement from boxing, he became an ordained minister and later enjoyed a successful comeback to the ring.
Foreman’s boxing career was marked by triumph and adversity. He won the Olympic gold medal in the heavyweight division at the 1968 Mexico City Games before turning professional in 1969. Foreman made an explosive entry into the professional ranks, capturing the world heavyweight title in 1973 with a stunning second-round knockout of the previously undefeated Joe Frazier. He successfully defended the belt twice before facing Muhammad Ali in the legendary “Rumble in the Jungle” in 1974, where he suffered his first professional loss.
After a series of setbacks, including a shocking loss to Jimmy Young in 1977, Foreman retired from boxing and devoted himself to his ministry. However, after what he described as a “born-again experience,” Foreman made a triumphant return to the ring in 1987. In 1994, at the age of 45, he achieved what seemed unthinkable: he became the oldest world heavyweight champion in history, knocking out 26-year-old Michael Moorer to win the WBA, IBF, and lineal heavyweight titles. At 46 years old, Foreman became the oldest man to ever hold the world heavyweight championship.
As an entrepreneur, Foreman’s legacy extended far beyond the ring. He became a household name with the George Foreman Grill, which went on to sell more than 100 million units worldwide. In 1999, Foreman sold the commercial rights to the grill for $138 million, solidifying his status as a successful businessman.
In recognition of his boxing achievements, Foreman was inducted into both the World Boxing Hall of Fame and the International Boxing Hall of Fame. He was also ranked among the greatest heavyweights of all time by the International Boxing Research Organization and The Ring magazine. The latter named him one of the 25 greatest fighters of the past 80 years in 2002.
The statement from his family concluded, “His legacy of love, faith, and strength will live on through his children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and everyone who knew him.”
Foreman’s passing leaves a profound void in both the boxing world and beyond. His indomitable spirit, warmth, and dedication to his faith and family touched the lives of millions, and his contributions to both the sport and society will never be forgotten. The family requested privacy during this time of mourning, asking for prayers and respect as they grieve the loss of their beloved patriarch.
