The boxing world is mourning the loss of a true icon as George Foreman, the legendary two-time heavyweight champion, passed away peacefully on Friday, March 21, 2025, at the age of 76. Surrounded by loved ones, Foreman’s death was announced by his family via an emotional Instagram post, prompting an outpouring of tributes from fans, fellow athletes, and admirers worldwide. Among those paying their respects was former heavyweight champion Mike Tyson, who shared a heartfelt message honoring Foreman’s remarkable legacy.
In a post on X early Saturday morning, Tyson wrote, “Condolences to George Foreman’s family. His contribution to boxing and beyond will never be forgotten.” Accompanying the message were two photos capturing moments between the two boxing titans: one recent image from a 2019 event in Las Vegas, where they playfully raised their fists, and another from a 1990 press conference, showcasing their camaraderie. The tribute underscored the mutual respect between the two fighters, despite never facing each other in the ring.
Foreman’s family described him as a “devout preacher, a devoted husband, a loving father, and a proud grand and great grandfather,” emphasizing his life beyond the sport. “He lived a life marked by unwavering faith, humility, and purpose,” the statement read. “A humanitarian, an Olympian, and two-time heavyweight champion of the world, he was deeply respected — a force for good, a man of discipline, conviction, and a protector of his legacy.” No cause of death was disclosed, and the family requested privacy as they grieve.
George Foreman’s career was nothing short of extraordinary. Born in Marshall, Texas, and raised in Houston, he rose from humble beginnings to claim Olympic gold in 1968 at age 19. He went on to dominate the professional heavyweight division, winning his first world title in 1973 with a stunning knockout of Joe Frazier. His infamous “Rumble in the Jungle” loss to Muhammad Ali in 1974 became one of boxing’s most iconic moments, yet Foreman’s resilience shone through decades later when, at 45, he reclaimed the heavyweight crown by defeating Michael Moorer in 1994—making him the oldest heavyweight champion in history. With a record of 76 wins and 5 losses, including 68 knockouts, Foreman cemented his status as one of the sport’s all-time greats.
Beyond the ring, Foreman’s entrepreneurial success with the George Foreman Grill transformed him into a household name, reportedly selling over 100 million units worldwide. His larger-than-life personality and infectious positivity endeared him to generations, while his work as a minister and philanthropist reflected his deep faith and commitment to helping others.
Tyson’s tribute resonated deeply with fans, many of whom noted the missed opportunity for a dream matchup between the two powerhouses. Throughout the late 1980s and early 1990s, a Tyson-Foreman fight was frequently discussed but never materialized, leaving it as one of boxing’s great “what-ifs.” Tyson, who himself boasts a 50-7 record with multiple heavyweight titles, acknowledged Foreman’s influence not only as a fighter but as a cultural figure.
Other prominent voices in sports joined Tyson in honoring Foreman. Basketball legend Charles Barkley told CBS Sports, “He was obviously one of the greatest boxers ever, but just a gentle man, a pastor — it just hurts, man, plain and simple.” Magic Johnson, another NBA icon, recalled attending Foreman’s fights and praised his business acumen, adding, “I even bought one of the first George Foreman grills!” Boxing promoter Bob Arum called Foreman “a great friend” and a “family member,” while Texas Governor Greg Abbott simply wrote, “A legend lost.”