Source: Vinnie Zuffante / Getty
Legendary boxer George Foreman has passed away at the age of 76.
His family broke the news on his Instagram account Friday evening, accompanied by a photo of them surrounding him. The caption begins by revealing he died today, March 21, with his loved ones by his side.
“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,” the statement reads. “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 heartfelt statement continues, championing his heroic efforts in the sport and beyond and thanking those in anticipation of the well wishes they’ll receive in the time of loss.
“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,” the statement continues. “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.”
His cause of death has not been revealed.
Born in 1949, Foreman’s boxing talent was spotted early on. He won a gold medal in the heavyweight division at the 1968 Summer Olympics in Mexico City. It was just the beginning of a storied career in which he won 76 of his 81 fights, 68 by knockout.
His first professional loss came in what was arguably his most famous fight when he stepped into the ring with Muhammad Ali in 1974 in what was etched into the history books as the Rumble in the Jungle.
He retired in 1997 at the age of 48 and was later inducted into the World Boxing Hall of Fame. At 45, Foreman would alter return after becoming an ordained minister and impressively beat a 26-year-old Michael Moorer.
The Texas native found success after his retirement, too, as he lent his likeness to what became the immensely popular George Foreman Grill. Though he’d never reveal how much he made from the endorsement, Business Week estimates his career earnings are about $240 million, largely thanks to the grilling deal.
The two-time heavyweight champ is survived by his 12 children, including five sons, who are all named after him.
See how social media is honoring the legendary boxer below, and may he rest in peace.
