"It’s all about belief in yourself: we can be old, stiff and tired or we can be preparing for the dance and fight of our lives." -George Foreman

If you can't believe in yourself, how do you expect others to believe in your. George Foreman approach every day believing that all things are possible if you just believe. The source of his belief was embedded in the power of prayer. On that solid foundation, Foreman was more than a just a giant in the ring but also a giant in life. George Edward Foreman Sr. transition from labor to reward on March 21, 2025. He was 76 years old.

His family announced the news on social media calling Foreman,  "A devout preacher, a devoted husband, a loving father, and a proud grand and great grandfather" who lived a life with "unwavering faith, humility, and purpose."

The Houston native rose from humble beginnings to become one of the most dominant forces in the sport. His journey from a troubled youth to Olympic gold medalist, world champion, and successful entrepreneur remains an inspiring testament to perseverance, faith, and resilience.

 George Forman at 19/credit IG-biggeorgeforman
 

A Meteoric Rise: From Houston’s Fifth Ward to Olympic Glory

Born on January 10, 1949, in Marshall, Texas, and raised in Houston’s Fifth Ward, Foreman’s early years were marked by struggle. He found his way out of hardship through the Job Corps, where he was introduced to boxing. Under the guidance of legendary trainer Dick Sadler, Foreman quickly displayed raw talent and power.

At just 19 years old, he represented the United States in the 1968 Olympic Games in Mexico City, winning a gold medal in the heavyweight division. His victory, capped by Foreman waving a small American flag in celebration, was the first sign of the dominant force he would become.

 George Foreman visits the White House with President Lyndon Johnson after the 1968 Olympics/credit IG-biggeorgeforeman 

Heavyweight Reign & The Rumble in the Jungle

Foreman turned professional in 1969, and within four years, he had become world heavyweight champion by delivering a stunning second-round knockout of Joe Frazier in 1973. The fight was a masterclass in power and aggression, as Foreman knocked Frazier down six times in one of the most devastating performances in boxing history.

However, Foreman’s most famous bout came on October 30, 1974, in Zaire—the historic "Rumble in the Jungle" against Muhammad Ali. Entering the fight as the undefeated champion, Foreman was the heavy favorite, but Ali’s "rope-a-dope" strategy proved too much. In the eighth round, Ali shocked the world by knocking out Foreman, handing him his first professional loss.

After a few more fights, Foreman retired in 1977 following a loss to Jimmy Young, an experience that led to a spiritual awakening. He became a preacher in Houston, focusing on faith and community work.

 George Foreman in the ring with Muhammad Ali - The Rumble in the Jungle/credit IG-biggeorgeforeman 

The Greatest Comeback in Boxing History

In 1987, at the age of 38, Foreman shocked the boxing world by announcing his return to the ring. Initially seen as a publicity stunt, Foreman proved the skeptics wrong with a string of victories. His most remarkable achievement came on November 5, 1994, when he faced Michael Moorer for the heavyweight title at age 45.

Despite being outboxed for most of the fight, Foreman landed a thunderous right hand in the tenth round, knocking out Moorer to become the oldest heavyweight champion in history. Wearing the same trunks he had worn against Ali 20 years earlier, Foreman’s victory was a defining moment in sports history, proving that resilience and self-belief can overcome any odds.

 George Foreman/credit IG-biggeorgeforeman
 

Beyond Boxing: A Legacy of Business and Family

Outside the ring, Foreman became just as well-known for his entrepreneurial success. His George Foreman Grill, which debuted in the 1990s, became a household staple, selling over 100 million units worldwide. He also served as a mentor, broadcaster, and philanthropist, dedicating himself to helping troubled youth in Houston.

A devoted family man, Foreman had 12 children, including five sons—all named George. He often spoke about how fatherhood was his greatest joy and legacy, reinforcing the importance of family, faith, and financial literacy.