Boxing legend George Foreman dead at 76

Boxing legend George Foreman is dead, his family has announced.

In a post on Foreman's Instagram account, the family stated: "Our hearts are broken. With profound sorrow, we announce the passing of our beloved George Edward Foreman St. who peacefully departed on March 21, 2025, surrounded by loved ones."

"A devout preacher, a devoted husband, a loving father, and a proud grand and great grandfather, he lived a life marked by unwavering faith, humility, and purpose, it stated.

Born in Texas in 1949 and known as Big George in the ring, Foreman built one of the most remarkable and long-lasting careers in the sport, winning Olympic gold in 1968 and claiming the world heavyweight title twice, 21 years apart.

The second made him the oldest champion in history aged 45. A remarkable feat to date.

He lost his first title to Muhammad Ali in their famous Rumble in the Jungle fight in 1974.

Foreman's professional boxing career boasted an amazing overall record total of 76 wins including 68 knockouts, almost double that of Ali.

Staged in Kinshasa, the capital of Zaire (now the Democratic Republic of Congo), the fighters walked to the ring at 04:00 local time, to accommodate for television times in the US. It is still one of the greatest events to ever take place in boxing to date.

Foreman retired from the sport in 1997 but not before he agreed to put his name to a best-selling grill, a decision that went on to bring him fortunes that dwarfed his boxing earnings.

Boxing champion and Foreman competitor Mike Tyson posted a message of condolence on his X account.

"Condolences to George Foreman's family. His contribution to boxing and beyond will never be forgotten," Tyson posted.

Boxing trainer and commentator Teddy Atlas said that Foreman was a human being extraordinaire.

"He was a special person put here for a special reason, to teach us that anything is possible if you believed it was, he also posted on X.