By: Sean Crose
One of the greatest heavyweights of all time has passed away. George Foreman, who became as famous for his grills as he was for his stunning second career in boxing, was one of a kind. “Our hearts are broken,” Foreman’s estate said in a social media statement Friday night. “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.”
Its not hyperbole to claim Foreman led an extraordinary life, going from heel to one of America’s most believed pop culture figures, and leaving an indelible mark on the sport of boxing. “A humanitarian, an Olympian, and two time heavyweight champion of the world,” the statement continued, “He was deeply respected – a force for good, a man of discipline, conviction, and as a protector of his legacy, fighting tirelessly to preserve his good name – for his family.”
After winning a gold medal at the 1968 Olympics, Foreman went on to become one of the most ferocious punchers in the heavyweight division. By 1973, the Houston native was ready to become heavyweight champion, a feat he accomplished by repeatedly dropping defending champion Joe Frazier a shocking six times in two rounds before the fight was stopped. Less than three years later, however, things turned for the worse for Foreman, for former world champion Muhammad Ali stunned the world by knocking Foreman out and taking his crown in Zaire.
Surprisingly, though, Foreman would win back the heavyweight championship – a full twenty years after he lost it to Ali. Foreman’s comeback likely began when he had a profound religious experience, one which permanently altered his life. Becoming an ordained minister, Foreman returned to boxing in 1987 in order to earn money for his parish. It was seen by many as a joke at the time. Foreman was, by that point, fat and bald, looking far different from the intimidating giant he used to be. Foreman got the last laugh, however, when, in 1994, he knocked out defending IBF and WBA heavyweight titlist Michael Moore a full two decades after losing his championship to Ali.
Foreman continued to fight until 1997. By that time, though, he was seen more as a ubiquitous celebrity and grill spokesman than he was a fighter. Indeed, the money earned from George Foreman Grills reportedly made him the most wealthy athlete in the world – even surpassing NBA and sneaker king Michael Jordan. With his passing, George Foremen left the world of boxing with a dazzling, positive narrative that will never be repeated. “We are grateful for the outpouring of love prayers, and kindly ask for privacy as we honor the extraordinary life of a man we were blessed to call our own,” Foreman’s estate concluded.
Rest in Peace, Big George.
