George Edward Foreman Sr., celebrated for his achievements in the boxing ring as well as in the business world, has passed away at the age of 76. The world knew him not only as an Olympic gold medalist and a two-time heavyweight champion but also as a savvy entrepreneur. News of his passing was shared by his family through a heartfelt Instagram post on Friday.
The family expressed their deep sorrow, saying, “Our hearts are broken. It is with profound sadness that we announce the peaceful passing of our beloved George Edward Foreman Sr. on March 21, 2025. He spent his final moments surrounded by those he loved most. A deeply faithful preacher, a devoted husband, and a loving father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, his life was a testament to faith and humility.”
They remembered him not just for his sporting achievements but as a respected humanitarian. “George was more than a champion in the ring; he was a force for good, a disciplined man of conviction who tirelessly fought to preserve his legacy for his family,” the statement continued. The family thanked everyone for the outpouring of love and prayers, while also requesting privacy as they commemorate Foreman’s remarkable life.
Known affectionately as “Big George” during his boxing career, Foreman was equally renowned for popularizing the George Foreman Grill. Between 1967 and 1997, he left an indelible mark on boxing history, earning his place in both the World Boxing Hall of Fame and the International Boxing Hall of Fame. His ascent began in the 1968 Olympics in Mexico City, where he clinched a gold medal by defeating the Soviet Union’s Jonas Čepulis in the heavyweight division.
Turning professional in 1969, Foreman made a striking entrance with a knockout victory over Donald Walheim in New York City, racking up 13 wins that year alone. His name became synonymous with one of the most iconic moments in sports history, “Down goes Frazier! Down goes Frazier! Down goes Frazier!” — this phrase echoing through the ages since 1973 when he dethroned the then-undisputed World Heavyweight Champion Joe Frazier.
After losing his titles to Muhammad Ali in the historic “Rumble in the Jungle,” Foreman’s path to another title bout eluded him, leading to his retirement following a loss to Jimmy Young in 1977. Following a profound personal transformation, he embraced a spiritual calling and became an ordained Christian minister. Foreman’s remarkable comeback journey began a decade later, culminating in 1994 when, at the age of 45, he stunned the world by claiming the unified WBA, IBF, and lineal heavyweight titles with a knockout win over Michael Moorer, who was 26 at the time.
For coverage of all things combat sports — from MMA and boxing to kickboxing and wrestling — stay connected to MyMMANews.com, where you’ll find the latest news, opinions, videos, and more.
