George Foreman, the boxing champ and George Foreman Grill mogul, has died. He was 76.
The 2x world heavyweight champion, who was generally known as Big George Foreman, “peacefully” died on Friday “surrounded by loved ones,” his household introduced on Instagram.
“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,” they introduced on his Instagram profile. “A religious preacher, a faithful husband, a loving father, and a proud grand and nice grandfather, he lived a life marked by unwavering religion, humility, and goal.
“A humanitarian, an Olympian, and two time heavyweight champion of the world, He was deeply revered — a drive for good, a person of self-discipline, conviction, and a protector of his legacy, preventing tirelessly to protect his good identify— for his household.
“We are grateful for the outpouring of love and prayers, and kindly ask for privacy as we honor the extraordinary life of a man we were blessed to call our own,” Foreman’s household added.
Born Jan. 10, 1949 in Marshall, Texas, taking over novice boxing in 1967 earlier than successful an gold medal within the heavyweight division the next 12 months on the Summer Olympics. After going skilled, he gained the world heavyweight title in 1973. Foreman misplaced the title to Muhammad Ali throughout their iconic Rumble within the Jungle match in 1974.
After retiring in 1977, Foreman returned to boxing in 1994 and have become the oldest world heavyweight champion in historical past at age 46. He retired from boxing for good in 1997, earlier than getting inducted into the World and International Boxing Halls of Fame and changing into a ringside analyst for HBO’s boxing protection.
In addition to changing into an ordained Christian minister, Foreman’s life exterior of the ring additionally included his profitable George Foreman Grill line, changing into the model’s beloved spokesperson and promoting greater than 100 million items worldwide.
Foreman is survived by spouse of 40 years, Mary Joan Martelly, in addition to 12 youngsters and a number of grandchildren and great-grandchildren.