HOUSTON — George Edward Foreman Sr., the Olympic gold medalist who became heavyweight boxing champion twice in careers separated by decades, has died at 76, his family announced Friday.
His family announced his death in an Instagram post, describing him as “a devout preacher, a devoted husband, a loving father, and a proud grand and great grandfather” who “lived a life marked by unwavering faith, humility, and purpose.”
Foreman’s journey took him from the streets of Houston to Olympic glory, from the heights of boxing fame to the pulpit as an ordained minister, and finally to unprecedented success as a businessman whose name became synonymous with the wildly popular George Foreman Grill.
Foreman began his boxing career as an Olympic gold medalist who inspired fear as he climbed to the peak of the heavyweight division by stopping Joe Frazier in 1973. His formidable aura evaporated only a year later when Ali pulled off one of the most audacious victories in boxing history in the “Rumble in the Jungle” in Zaire, baiting and taunting Foreman into losing his belt in one of the greatest fights ever staged.
Foreman left the sport a few years later, but returned after a 10-year absence and a self-described religious awakening.
He then pulled off one of the most spectacular knockouts in boxing history in 1994, flooring Michael Moorer — 19 years his junior — with one perfect combination to claim Moorer’s two heavyweight belts.
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Foreman’s transformation into an inspirational figure was complete, and he fought only four more times before moving onto his next career as a genial businessman, pitchman and occasional actor.
He was best known as the face of the George Foreman Grill, a rudimentary cooking machine which sold more than 100 million units and made him much wealthier than his sport ever did.
He is survived by his wife, Mary Joan Martelly, whom he married in 1985, and his 12 children, including five sons named after him.
Texas Governor Greg Abbott said he was “A legend lost.”
Mike Tyson shared thoughts for Foreman’s family.
Condolences to George Foreman’s family. His contribution to boxing and beyond will never be forgotten. pic.twitter.com/Xs5QjMukqr
— Mike Tyson (@MikeTyson) March 22, 2025
The Associated Press contributed to this report.