George Foreman, legendary boxing champion, Olympic gold medalist and spokesperson for the highly successful George Foreman Grill, has died. He was 76.
The fighter’s family confirmed his death with a lengthy post on Instagram.
The post reads: “Our hearts are broken. 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. 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.”
“A humanitarian, an Olympian, and two-time heavyweight champion of the world, He was deeply respected — a force for good, a man of discipline, conviction, and a protector of his legacy, fighting tirelessly to preserve his good name— for his family.”
The message concluded: “We are grateful for the outpouring of love and prayers, and kindly ask for privacy as we honor the extraordinary life of a man we were blessed to call our own.”
Foreman was born in Marshall, Texas, and was raised alongside his six siblings. He experienced a troubled youth, lived in poverty and dropped out of high school at 15 years old. However, he later earned his GED and sparked an interest in sports, pursuing boxing.
In 1968, at just 19 years old, he won an Olympic gold medal for boxing at the Mexico City Summer Games. He’s fought greats like Muhammad Ali, Joe Frazier, José Roman and Ken Norton. He earned his heavyweight winner titles by defeating Michael Moorer and Frazier. However, Foreman retired from the ring in 1977 after a loss to Jimmy Young.
In 1994, Foreman started his endorsement for the George Foreman Grill. He promoted the electric, portable grills with lines like, “It’s a knockout.”
Two years ago, a boxing biopic on the iconic fighter titled Big George Foreman was released.
Foreman is survived by 11 of his 12 children (including his five sons, who are all named George) and his wife, Mary Joan Martelly.
Following the news of his death, fellow boxer Mike Tyson took to X to honor Foreman. “Condolences to George Foreman’s family. His contribution to boxing and beyond will never be forgotten,” Tyson wrote.
March 21, 10:28 p.m. This story has been updated to include Mike Tyson’s tribute.
