Boxing legend George Foreman passes away at 76

Former heavyweight champion George Foreman, known for his legendary fight against Muhammad Ali in the 1974 "Rumble in the Jungle" and his remarkable comeback two decades later, passed away on 21 March 2025 at the age of 76. His family shared the news in a heartfelt statement on his official Instagram page.

"With profound sorrow, we announce the passing of our beloved George Edward Foreman Sr, who peacefully departed on March 21, 2025, surrounded by loved ones," the statement read. The family expressed gratitude for the love and prayers received and requested privacy as they honoured his life.

Born on 10 January 1949 in Texas, Foreman grew up in Houston. After having a tough childhood, he discovered later in life that the man who raised him, J.D. Foreman, was not his biological father. His real father, a World War II veteran, reached out to him after he became world champion.

As a teenager, Foreman became involved in crime and dropped out of school at 16. His younger brother, Roy, once recalled that George was a dominant figure in their neighbourhood.  "At 13, he was about 6-foot-2, 200 pounds, and the terror of the area," he said in an interview with the BBC in 2024.

At 16, Foreman started boxing. Initially, he wanted to play football but took up boxing to prove his toughness. Just a year later, he won an Olympic gold medal at the 1968 Mexico Games, dominating the super-heavyweight division. After his victory, he waved an American flag in the ring, just days after fellow African American athletes Tommie Smith and John Carlos made history with their Black Power salute at the 200m track final.

At 6-foot-4 (1.93m), Foreman was a powerful and agile heavyweight. He quickly rose through the professional ranks and defeated Joe Frazier in just two rounds to win the heavyweight championship.

By the time Foreman defended his title against Muhammad Ali in 1974, he had an undefeated record of 40 wins, with most victories coming by knockout. However, Ali used his famous 'rope-a-dope' strategy, tiring Foreman out before knocking him out in the eighth round.

Though he lost the title, Foreman later made an incredible comeback, reclaiming the heavyweight championship two decades later. His legacy extends beyond boxing, as he became a successful entrepreneur and an inspiration to many.