George Foreman, the two-time heavyweight boxing champion whose larger-than-life comeback and warm personality turned him into a beloved global figure, died Friday at the age of 76, his family confirmed. The formidable fighter known as "Big George" rose from a tough upbringing in Houston's Fifth Ward to win Olympic gold in 1968 and the heavyweight title in 1973 by knocking out Joe Frazier in just two rounds. A year later, he would lose that title in the legendary "Rumble in the Jungle" against Muhammad Ali, one of the most iconic bouts in sports history. Two decades later, in 1994, a 45-year-old Foreman stunned the world again by knocking out Michael Moorer to reclaim the heavyweight championship, making him the oldest man ever to win the title. The win also marked the longest gap between title reigns in boxing history. His family announced the news of his death on social media, describing him as "a devout preacher, a devoted husband, a loving father and a proud grand- and great-grandfather." The cause and location of death were not disclosed. Foreman retired with a professional record of 76 wins (68 by knockout) and 5 losses, but his legacy extended well beyond the ring. He became a television personality, an Olympic ambassador, and a hugely successful entrepreneur, most famously lending his name to the George Foreman Grill, which sold over 100 million units. Born in 1949, Foreman overcame early struggles and a troubled youth to become one of the most feared punchers in heavyweight history. His early persona was stoic and intimidating, but after retiring from boxing in 1977 following a spiritual awakening, he became a preacher and mentor for at-risk youth. In a remarkable comeback at age 38, Foreman returned to the ring in 1987, surprising critics with his endurance, power, and charisma. After his 1994 title victory over Moorer, he fought four more times before retiring in 1997. Foreman also embraced the spotlight outside the ring. He starred in commercials, briefly hosted a sitcom, appeared on "The Masked Singer" in 2022, and was the subject of a 2023 biopic, Big George Foreman. He fathered 12 children, famously naming five of his sons George, and was remembered as both a ferocious competitor and a deeply kind and spiritual man. — Agencies
