George Foreman, Entrepreneurial Heavyweight Boxer, Passes Away at 76

Boxing great and entrepreneur George Foreman passed away at age 76. The two-time world heavyweight champ and Olympic gold medalist Foreman was both famous for being one of the greatest in-ring competitors in heavyweight boxing history, as well as successful as an entrepreneur in the years that followed, most famously with the popular George Foreman Grill.

A Boxing Legend

Born on January 10, 1949, in Marshall, Texas, Foreman became famous as one of the greatest heavyweight boxers of his time. He won a gold medal at the 1968 Olympics in Mexico City before becoming a professional. His most famous win was in 1973, when he beat Joe Frazier to take the heavyweight title, knocking him down six times in two rounds.

Foreman was a part of one of the most historic boxing fights, the “Rumble in the Jungle” in 1974, where he boxed against Muhammad Ali in Zaire (Democratic Republic of Congo). Ali’s celebrated “rope-a-dope” tactic gave Foreman his first professional loss. Foreman retired in 1977 but came back with an incredible turnaround in 1994, winning the heavyweight title at 45 years of age, making him the oldest heavyweight world champion.

Success Outside the Ring

Outside of boxing, Foreman established a very successful business empire. His George Foreman Grill, introduced in the 1990s, was a worldwide phenomenon with more than 100 million units sold globally. His brand became indelibly linked with healthy cooking, and his business success secured his position in popular culture.

Foreman also emerged as a popular television personality, minister, and motivational speaker, using his stature to inspire people through his success story of determination and transformation.

Tributes Flood In

Since his death was reported, tributes have poured in from the world of sport and more widely. His fellow boxing legends, celebrities, and fans have paid tribute to his legacy, praising him for his pugilistic power but also his warm, charismatic on-screen presence outside the ring.

Legacy and Impact

George Foreman’s legacy extends far beyond boxing. He was a pioneer who showed that reinvention is possible at any stage in life. His contributions to sports, business, and culture will continue to inspire generations to come.

He is survived by his wife, children, and countless fans who will forever remember him as a champion in every sense of the word.