Legendary boxer George Foreman, Olympic gold medalist, and Grill spokesperson dies at 76
George Foreman, the legendary boxing champion, Olympic gold medalist, and global ambassador for the George Foreman Grill, has passed away at the age of 76. The boxer’s family confirmed his death in a heartfelt message posted on Instagram.
'George Foreman.'
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The family’s statement read, “With profound sorrow, we announce the passing of our beloved George Edward Foreman Sr., who peacefully left us on March 21, 2025, surrounded by his loved ones. A devout preacher, a devoted husband, a loving father, and a proud grandfather and great-grandfather, he led a life marked by unwavering faith, humility, and purpose."
Foreman was widely respected not just as a boxing champion, but also as a humanitarian, a two-time heavyweight world champion, and an Olympian. The family described him as a man of discipline and conviction, a protector of his legacy who fought tirelessly to uphold his good name, especially for the sake of his family.
The post concluded with gratitude, saying, “We are deeply grateful for the outpouring of love and prayers and kindly ask for privacy as we honor the extraordinary life of a man we were privileged to call our own.”
Born in Marshall, Texas, Foreman was raised in a challenging environment, the youngest of seven siblings. His early years were marked by poverty, and he dropped out of high school at the age of 15. Despite his troubled youth, he later earned his GED and developed a passion for sports, ultimately pursuing boxing.
At just 19 years old, Foreman achieved international fame when he won a gold medal in boxing at the 1968 Summer Olympics in Mexico City. Over his storied career, he fought and defeated boxing legends such as Muhammad Ali, Joe Frazier, José Roman, and Ken Norton. Foreman clinched his heavyweight titles by defeating Michael Moorer and Frazier. After a loss to Jimmy Young in 1977, he retired from the sport, only to return to the ring in 1994.
In the 1990s, Foreman became the face of the George Foreman Grill, an innovative kitchen appliance that saw enormous success. His memorable tagline, "It’s a knockout," helped propel the product into households worldwide.
Two years ago, a biographical film titled Big George Foreman was released, recounting the life of the iconic boxer.
Foreman is survived by his wife, Mary Joan Martelly, and 11 of his 12 children, including his five sons, all named George.
Fellow boxing icon Mike Tyson paid tribute to Foreman on social media, writing, “Condolences to George Foreman’s family. His contribution to boxing and beyond will never be forgotten.”
Foreman’s impact on the sport of boxing, as well as his entrepreneurial ventures and humanitarian work, will leave a lasting legacy for generations to come.
