The oldest heavyweight world champion in boxing history, George Foreman, has died aged 76.
‘Big’ George competed across four decades and famously took ten years out of the ring before returning for another championship run to end his career with 76 wins from 81 fights.
The thudding puncher from Marshall, Texas co-starred in the Rumble in the Jungle with Muhammad Ali and beat the likes of Ken Norton, Micheal Moorer and Joe Frazier.
His family released a statement on Friday night:
“Our hearts are broken. 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.
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.
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.”
Tributes and condolences poured in from the boxing world and beyond, highlighting Foreman’s impact on the sport and beyond.
Mike Tyson
Condolences to George Foreman’s family. His contribution to boxing and beyond will never be forgotten. pic.twitter.com/Xs5QjMukqr
— Mike Tyson (@MikeTyson) March 22, 2025
Teddy Atlas
He was a Special fighter & a Special person, put here for a Special reason. To teach us anything was possible, if u believed it was. 🙏❤️👑 pic.twitter.com/sD8zZbQVlx
— Teddy Atlas (@TeddyAtlasReal) March 22, 2025
Bob Arum
A true member of the Top Rank family 🤍 @BobArumpic.twitter.com/LpF6qyW9w2
— Top Rank Boxing (@trboxing) March 22, 2025
WBC President Mauricio Sulaiman
Receiving sad news is a moment that sticks to your memory for life
The great George Foreman has passed away
Legendary boxing champion, life changing preacher, Husband, father, grand and great grandfather and the best friend you could have.
His memory is now eternal , may Big…— Mauricio Sulaiman (@wbcmoro) March 22, 2025
Riyadh Season’s Turki Alalshikh
Sad news for me and the boxing world… The last boxing pillar for an unforgettable era has passed away today… May his soul rest in peace, Big George Foreman! 💔🥊 pic.twitter.com/cufeiEVyom
— TURKI ALALSHIKH (@Turki_alalshikh) March 22, 2025
Chris Eubank Jr
Rest in Peace to one of my boxing heroes – The Legendary George Foreman 🙌🏽🙏🏽 pic.twitter.com/vHdtvqPwmP
— Chris Eubank Jr (@ChrisEubankJr) March 22, 2025
