March 22, (THEWILL) – Two-time heavyweight boxing champion George Foreman has died at the age of 76.
His family confirmed his passing in a statement on Friday, revealing that the boxing icon died peacefully on March 21, 2025, surrounded by loved ones.
Foreman, a dominant force in the heavyweight division, first captured the world title in 1973 with a stunning second-round knockout of Joe Frazier, dropping the champion six times in what remains one of the most brutal victories in boxing history.
More than two decades later, he made history again, reclaiming the title at the age of 45 by knocking out Michael Moorer in 1994—becoming the oldest heavyweight champion in history.
Beyond the ring, Foreman’s life was marked by transformation. Following a shocking defeat to Jimmy Young in 1977, he retired from boxing and became a minister, dedicating his life to religion.
However, financial struggles brought him back to the sport a decade later, setting the stage for his improbable comeback and eventual business success with the now-famous George Foreman Grill.
Despite suffering one of his most famous defeats to Muhammad Ali in the legendary 1974 Rumble in the Jungle, Foreman and Ali later became close friends.
Their bond extended beyond the sport, with Foreman serving as an honorary pallbearer at Ali’s funeral in 2016.
Following his final retirement from boxing in 1997, Foreman focused on his ministry while building a lucrative business empire. His deal with Salton Inc., which reportedly earned him £137.5 million for the use of his name on cooking grills, cemented his financial legacy.
From Olympic gold to two heavyweight championships, a remarkable spiritual journey, and a thriving business career, Foreman’s life was a testament to resilience and reinvention.
Jude Ndukwe
