George Foreman, boxing icon and grill creator, dies at 76. Tributes celebrate his legendary career.

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George Foreman

George Foreman, the two-time heavyweight boxing champion, Olympic gold medalist, and entrepreneur behind the iconic George Foreman Grill, passed away peacefully on March 21, 2025, at 76.

His family confirmed the news in a statement, noting that loved ones surrounded him at the time of his death. No official cause of death has been disclosed.

Foreman’s remarkable life story—from a strict upbringing in Houston, Texas, to global stardom in the boxing ring and beyond—has left an indelible mark on sports and popular culture.

His passing has prompted an outpouring of tributes from fans, athletes, and public figures worldwide, celebrating a career defined by resilience, reinvention, and unmistakable charisma.

A Titan in the Ring

Born on January 10, 1949, George Edward Foreman rose from humble beginnings to become one of the most formidable boxers of his era.

His career took off with a gold medal win at the 1968 Summer Olympics in Mexico City, a moment that launched him into professional boxing.

Known for his devastating punching power, Foreman claimed the heavyweight title in 1973 with a second-round knockout of Joe Frazier, cementing his reputation as a fearsome competitor.

Perhaps his most famous fight came in 1974, when he faced Muhammad Ali in the legendary “Rumble in the Jungle” in Kinshasa, Zaire.

Though Foreman lost the title in a stunning upset, the bout remains one of the most iconic in boxing history.

Undeterred, he staged an extraordinary comeback two decades later, reclaiming the heavyweight championship in 1994 at age 45 by knocking out Michael Moorer.

At the time, he became the oldest heavyweight champion in history, a record that underscored his enduring tenacity.

Beyond Boxing: The George Foreman Grill

Foreman’s influence extended far beyond the squared circle.

After retiring from boxing in 1997, he reinvented himself as an entrepreneur, most notably with the George Foreman Lean Mean Fat-Reducing Grilling Machine.

Introduced in 1994, the countertop appliance became a household name, selling over 100 million units worldwide and revolutionizing home cooking with its promise of healthier, low-fat meals.

The grill made Foreman a multimillionaire and transformed him into a beloved mainstream cultural figure known for his warm smile and affable persona.

A Life of Faith and Family

A devout Christian, Foreman often spoke of a spiritual awakening following a near-death experience in 1977, which led him to step away from boxing temporarily to become a pastor.

He founded the George Foreman Youth and Community Center in Houston, reflecting his commitment to giving back to his community.

A father of 12, including five sons, all named George, he emphasized family as a cornerstone of his life, often sharing humorous anecdotes about his naming tradition.

Tributes Pour In

News of Foreman’s passing has sparked widespread reflection on his multifaceted legacy.

“George was a giant in every sense—his power in the ring, his innovation outside it, and his heart for people,” said former heavyweight champion Lennox Lewis.

Social media platforms, particularly X, have been flooded with messages from fans recalling their favorite Foreman moments, from his knockout punches to late-night infomercials pitching the grill.

“Rest in peace, Big George,” one user wrote. “You gave us thrills in the ring and burgers on the grill—nobody did it like you.”

A Lasting Impact

George Foreman’s death marks the end of an era, but his contributions to boxing, business, and popular culture endure.

Whether remembered as the towering figure who traded blows with Ali or the genial salesman who made grilling a global pastime, Foreman’s journey from the streets of Houston to worldwide acclaim remains a testament to the power of reinvention and perseverance.

Funeral arrangements have yet to be announced, but his family has requested privacy during this time.

Instead of flowers, they encourage donations to the George Foreman Youth and Community Center, a cause close to his heart.

Foreman is survived by his wife, Mary Joan Martelly, and his 12 children.

His legacy, however, lives on in the millions who admired him—both in and out of the ring.