Tributes pour in for "Big" George Foreman, dead at 76
George Foreman has passed away, aged 76
Two-time world heavyweight champion and Olympic gold medalist, George Foreman has sadly passed away at the age of 76.
"Big George" became the oldest boxer to ever win a heavyweight title at the age of 45, competing for 30 years between 1969-1997. The Hall of Famer won an Olympic gold medal at the 1968 Mexico City Games.
He became the WBC and WBA world heavyweight champion in 1973 when he knocked out Joe Frazier in two rounds in Jamaica, aged 24. He became a two-time world heavyweight champion over 2o years later when KO'd Michael Moorer in 1994 to win the WBA and IBF titles.
He originally retired in 1997 after losing to Jimmy Young, but returned 10 years later in 1987 and had another 34 fights.
The Ring Magazine considered the Texan one of the 25 greatest fighters of all-time. He had 10 children, five of which were sons, all named George.
His family released a statement to say that he passed peacefully on March 21, 2025.
Tony Bellew:
"RIP to one of the greatest human beings to ever put on boxing gloves.. This man was truly amazing! There is no doubt imo he’s the greatest puncher boxing has ever seen. Rest easy king the world is a lesser place without you."
Chris Eubank:
"Rest in Peace to one of my boxing heroes - The Legendary George Foreman."
Top Rank:
“The Top Rank family mourns the passing of George Foreman, one of the biggest punchers and personalities the sport has ever seen. Foreman, a product of Houston's Fifth Ward, was a 1968 Olympic Gold Medalist and captured his first heavyweight championship in 1973.
“In 1987, after nearly a decade away from the ring, Foreman embarked on a comeback that inspired millions and made him a beloved figure around the globe. Against all odds, he regained the heavyweight championship in 1994 at the age of 45 and is still the oldest heavyweight champion in boxing history.“
Bob Arum:
“George was a great friend to not only myself but to my entire family. We've lost a family member and are absolutely devastated.“
Mike Tyson:
"Condolences to George Foreman’s family. His contribution to boxing and beyond will never be forgotten."
Turki Alalshikh:
"Sad news for me and the boxing world... The last boxing pillar for an unforgettable era has passed away today... May his soul rest in peace, Big George Foreman!"
The Ring Magazine:
"The Ring is deeply saddened to learn of the passing of boxing legend George Foreman. Foreman is considered one of the greatest heavyweights of all time, and will be remembered as an icon of the sport forever. Our deepest sympathies are with George’s friends and family at this time."
Scott Pippen:
"Rest in peace, George Foreman. Your legacy lives on, champ."
Amanda Serrano:
"RIP To the nicest human being to ever lace on a pair of gloves ‘Big George Foreman’ May the good Lord have you beside him where you deserve to be. You will be missed."
GBN would also like to extend our deepest condolences to George's family and friends at this difficult time. RIP champ.
