George Foreman
Dead At 76
Published
Boxing legend George Foreman has died at 76 years old, his family announced Friday.
“Big George” — a two-time heavyweight champion — participated in some of the most important boxing events of all time.
Foreman burst onto the scene in 1968 at the Summer Olympics in Mexico City … where he won a gold medal.
Shortly after the Games, George turned pro. In 1973, Foreman defeated then undefeated heavyweight champ, Joe Frazier, securing his first title just years into his professional career.
After defending the belt twice, George, 25 years old and unbeaten, faced Muhammad Ali in 1974 in one of the most memorable boxing matches ever, coined “The Rumble In The Jungle,” in Zaire.
Ali shocked Foreman, winning by 8th round TKO.
As great of a fighter as he was, his family also highlighted his personal accomplishments outside of the ring — “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.”
“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, fighting tirelessly to preserve his good name — for his family.
On top of being one of the most popular pugilists in the world, he was also the face of the iconic George Foreman Lean Mean Fat-Reducing Grilling Machine.
His family continued … “We are grateful for the outpouring of love and prayers, and kindly ask for privacy as we honor the extraordinary life of a man we were blessed to call our own.”
