Islamabad, 22 March 2025: Heavyweight boxer George Foreman has died at the age of 76, leaving behind an extraordinary legacy in the sport.
Known as “Big George,” he secured an Olympic gold medal in 1968 before becoming a two-time world heavyweight champion, achieving the latter feat at 45, making him the oldest in history.
Foreman, who dominated the ring with his power, registered 76 victories, including 68 knockouts—almost twice the number achieved by Muhammad Ali.
However, he is most remembered for his loss to Ali in the iconic 1974 “Rumble in the Jungle,” where Ali’s “rope-a-dope” strategy wore him down before a knockout in the eighth round.
Foreman’s family announced his passing on social media, describing him as a man of faith, humility, and purpose.
They highlighted his influence as a boxer, humanitarian, and preacher who fought to protect his legacy.
Tributes poured in from across the boxing world, with former champion Mike Tyson emphasizing Foreman’s impact on and beyond the sport.
The Ring magazine hailed him as one of the greatest heavyweights of all time.
Raised in poverty in Texas, Foreman turned to boxing after a troubled youth. He won Olympic gold at 19 and remained undefeated in his first 37 professional fights.
His dominance peaked in 1973 when he defeated Joe Frazier, knocking him down six times in two rounds to claim the heavyweight title.
After retiring in 1977, Foreman became a preacher and later returned to boxing in 1987 to raise funds for his youth center.
In 1994, he made history by defeating Michael Moorer, reclaiming the heavyweight title at 45.
Beyond boxing, Foreman became a household name through the George Foreman Grill, a venture that earned him more wealth than his boxing career.
He was married five times and had 12 children, including five sons, all named George. He once explained that this naming tradition ensured they shared a lifelong bond.
