Athletes and sports organizations shared condolences and messages remembering Olympic gold medalist and two-time world heavyweight champion George Foreman, who passed away at 76.
The sporting world is mourning the loss of one of boxing’s all-time greats. George Foreman, an Olympic gold medalist, two-time heavyweight champion, and later a successful entrepreneur, passed away on March 21 at the age of 76.
His family announced the news in an emotional statement shared on his social media accounts, describing him as a “devout preacher, a devoted husband, a loving father, and a proud grand and great grandfather.”
“Our hearts are broken,” the statement read. “He was deeply respected—a force for good, a man of discipline, conviction, and a protector of his legacy, fighting tirelessly to preserve his good name—for his family.”
A legendary career in the ring
Foreman’s professional boxing record stands at an impressive 76 wins (68 by knockout) and just five losses.
Among his most famous bouts was the legendary "Rumble in the Jungle" in 1974, where he faced Muhammad Ali for the WBC World Heavyweight title. The fight, which saw Ali employ his famous "Rope-a-Dope" strategy, ended with Foreman’s only knockout defeat.
Reflecting on the historic bout, Foreman posted in October 2024, “Can you believe 50 years ago, the ‘Rumble in the Jungle,’ fighting Muhammad Ali? Looking back at the best time of my life—celebrate with me with a slice of cake, as I relive the ‘Rope-a-Dope.’”
Despite the loss, Foreman’s legacy was cemented, not only because of his battles against Ali but also due to his dominant knockout win over Joe Frazier in 1973. Those encounters eventually led to the famous "Thrilla in Manila" rematch between Ali and Frazier in 1975.
A legacy beyond boxing
Beyond the ring, Foreman became a cultural icon through his successful business ventures, particularly the George Foreman Grill, which sold millions worldwide. His larger-than-life personality, coupled with his transformation from a feared knockout artist to a beloved family man and preacher, made him a unique figure in sports history.
Tributes from the sports world
The sports community quickly reacted to Foreman’s passing, paying tribute to his legacy.
- Eight-division boxing champion Manny Pacquiao: "I am deeply saddened to hear of the passing of the legendary George Foreman. His incredible career and strength in the ring inspired countless fighters, including myself. His legacy as a true champion will forever be remembered. My heartfelt condolences go out to his family, friends, and all those whose lives he touched both in and out of the boxing world. Rest in peace, George. You will always be an icon."
- Renowned boxer Mike Tyson: “Condolences to George Foreman’s family. His contribution to boxing and beyond will never be forgotten.”
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Olympic champion and six-time NBA champion Scottie Pippen: “Rest in peace, George Foreman. Your legacy lives on, champ. 🥺”
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Ring Magazine: “Foreman is considered one of the greatest heavyweights of all time, and will be remembered as an icon of the sport forever.”
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Boxing Scene: "George Foreman, one of the greatest heavyweights to live has passed away aged 76. Rest in Peace, champ."
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Los Angeles Lakers legend Magic Johnson: “I was really sad to hear the news that one of my boxing heroes, George Foreman, passed away. He was a knockout artist in the ring, and an amazing businessman outside of it. I even bought one of the first George Foreman grills!”
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YouTube star-turned-boxer Jake Paul: “Rest in Peace George Foreman and condolences to his entire family. He did great things inside and outside of the ring. Big George Forever Goated.”
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Actor William Shatner, who co-starred with Foreman in the TV series "Better Late Than Never": "Condolences to the family of George Foreman. 😔"
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Top Rank Boxing: "One of the biggest punchers and personalities the sport has ever seen. The Top Rank family mourns the passing of George Foreman, a devoted family man and sporting icon."
Rest in peace, Big George.