Austin, March 22 — George Foreman, the former heavyweight champion who lost the iconic “Rumble in the Jungle” to Muhammad Ali before making a stunning comeback as a 45-year-old titleholder, died Friday night at 76.
His family confirmed the news on social media, describing him as a “devout preacher, devoted husband, loving father, and proud grand- and great-grandfather” who lived with “unwavering faith, humility, and purpose.”
A two-time heavyweight champion and Olympic gold medalist, Foreman rose to fame with his ferocious knockout power, famously defeating Joe Frazier in 1973. However, his aura of invincibility shattered a year later when Ali outmaneuvered him in Zaire with the legendary “rope-a-dope” strategy, claiming the heavyweight crown.
Foreman retired in 1977 following a religious awakening but made a remarkable comeback in 1987. In 1994, at age 45, he shocked the world by knocking out Michael Moorer to reclaim the heavyweight title—19 years after losing it to Ali.
Beyond boxing, Foreman became a beloved figure as the face of the George Foreman Grill, which sold over 100 million units, making him wealthier than his boxing career ever did.
Top Rank president Bob Arum mourned the loss, calling Foreman “a great friend” and “part of the family.” WBC President Mauricio Sulaiman remembered him as a “legendary champion and life-changing preacher.”
Foreman is survived by his wife and 12 children, including five sons, all named George Edward Foreman.
