George Edward Foreman Sr., the iconic two-time heavyweight boxing champion, Olympic gold medalist, and beloved entrepreneur, passed away peacefully at the age of 76 on Friday, March 21, surrounded by loved ones, his family announced late that evening. The news, shared via an emotional statement on Foreman’s official Instagram account, has sent shockwaves through the sports world and beyond, marking the end of an extraordinary life that left an indelible mark on boxing, faith, and popular culture.
“Our hearts are broken,” the family wrote. “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. A devout preacher, a devoted husband, a loving father, and a proud grand and great-grandfather, he lived a life marked by unwavering faith, humility, and purpose.” No cause of death was disclosed, and the family requested privacy as they mourn the loss of a man they described as “a force for good” and a protector of his legacy.
Born on January 10, 1949, in Marshall, Texas, and raised in Houston’s tough Fifth Ward, Foreman’s journey from a troubled youth to a global icon is the stuff of legend. After dropping out of school and engaging in petty crime, he found salvation through the Job Corps program, which introduced him to boxing. At just 19, Foreman captured the heavyweight gold medal at the 1968 Mexico City Olympics, proudly waving an American flag in the ring—an image that remains one of the most iconic moments in Olympic history.
Turning professional in 1969, Foreman quickly rose through the ranks, culminating in a stunning second-round knockout of the undefeated Joe Frazier in 1973 to claim his first heavyweight title. Known as “Big George,” his thunderous punching power made him a feared figure in the ring. However, his reign was famously interrupted in 1974 by Muhammad Ali in the historic “Rumble in the Jungle” in Kinshasa, Zaire (now the Democratic Republic of the Congo). Ali’s “rope-a-dope” strategy led to Foreman’s first professional loss, a defining moment in boxing history that showcased both his strength and vulnerability.
Foreman retired in 1977 after a loss to Jimmy Young, turning to a new calling as an ordained minister following a profound religious awakening. He founded the George Foreman Youth and Community Center in Houston, dedicating himself to helping at-risk youth. But in 1987, at the age of 38, he staged one of the most remarkable comebacks in sports history. Defying skeptics, Foreman reclaimed the heavyweight title in 1994 by knocking out Michael Moorer at age 45, becoming the oldest heavyweight champion ever—a record that stood for two decades. His final professional record was an impressive 76 wins, 68 by knockout, and just 5 losses.
Beyond the ring, Foreman’s charisma and entrepreneurial spirit shone brightly. In 1994, he lent his name to the George Foreman Lean Mean Fat-Reducing Grilling Machine, a simple kitchen appliance that became a cultural phenomenon. Selling over 100 million units worldwide, the grill made Foreman a household name far beyond boxing, reportedly earning him over $200 million—more than his entire boxing career. His jovial pitchman persona endeared him to millions, transforming the once-intimidating fighter into a beloved figure of resilience and reinvention.
Tributes poured in from across the globe following the announcement. Fellow heavyweight legend Mike Tyson wrote on X, “Condolences to George Foreman’s family. His contribution to boxing and beyond will never be forgotten.” Houston Mayor John Whitmire called him “a proud member of our community—a man whose heart was as big as his powerful punch.” ESPN hailed him as “one of the most influential and recognizable boxers of all time,” while Texas Governor Greg Abbott mourned “a legend lost.”
Foreman’s personal life was as rich as his public one. Married five times, he leaves behind his wife, Mary Joan Martelly, and 12 children, including five sons all named George Edward Foreman—a choice he once explained was to ensure they “always have something in common.” His faith remained a cornerstone, guiding his work as a preacher and philanthropist.