In what feels like a heavyweight blow to the world of sports, the legendary George Foreman, known not just for his fists but also for flipping burgers, has sadly passed away at the age of 76. Yes, you read that right—this was the man who fought the Rumble in the Jungle, but now life has thrown the ultimate uppercut. Foreman wasn’t just a two-time heavyweight champion; he was a household name across generations, blending his prowess in the ring with a flair for marketing genius that made the Foreman Grill a must-have kitchen gadget. He left behind a legacy that stretched far beyond boxing, touching lives both as a devout preacher and an entrepreneur. As we take a moment to celebrate his impact on sports and beyond, one must ponder: How do we honor a man whose fame transcended not just athletics but also the delicious appeal of grilled food? Let’s dive deeper into the life and legacy of “Big George,” a figure who truly packed a punch both in and out of the ring.
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Sad news from the world of sports today, as one of the most famous boxers of the modern age has passed away.
Multiple sources have now confirmed that George Foreman has died at the age of 76.
The sports icon — who famously forged a second career as a mogul and media figure — has been one of the most famous athletes on the planet for several decades.
Foreman’s family issued a statement late Friday evening confirming his death:
“Our hearts are broken,” the announcement read.
“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,” the statement continued.
“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.”
Foreman was a two-time heavyweight champion, an entrepreneur, author, and minister, who’s been a household name for generations.
“Big George” famously lost the first fight of his career when he squared off Muhammad Ali in 1974 in a bout that was dubbed “the Rumble in the Jungle.”
The match remains one of the most-watched sporting events of all time.
Foreman won the heavyweight gold medal with a dominant performance at the 1968 Olympics in Mexico City.
The most famous victory of his career came in his championship bout against Joe Frazier in Jamaica in 1973.
Foreman dominated the fight against his heavily favored opponent, leading to the famous Howard Cossell call “Down goes Frazier!”
In his later years, Foreman became one of the most successful ad pitchmen of all time.
His George Foreman Lean Mean Fat-Reducing Grilling Machine — later known simply as “the Foreman Grill” — remains one of America’s most popular kitchen implements.
At the time of his death, Foreman remained one of the world’s most famous athletes.
The sports legend is survived by 12 children. Our thoughts go out to his loved ones at this enormously difficult time.