Former heavyweight boxing champion George Foreman passed away on Friday (March 21) at the age of 76.
His family announced the news on social media, stating that Foreman was surrounded by loved ones at the time of his passing. The statement described him as a devout preacher, a loyal husband, and a proud grandfather and great-grandfather. However, the cause of his death was not disclosed.
Boxing legend Mike Tyson paid tribute to Foreman, praising his contributions to the sport, which Tyson said will be remembered forever.
Born in Texas, Foreman overcame a troubled youth, having dropped out of school at 15 and engaged in criminal activities before turning his life around. In 1967, he achieved his first victory in amateur boxing and went on to win a gold medal in boxing at the 1968 Mexico City Olympics at just 19 years old.
In 1973, Foreman claimed the heavyweight championship by defeating then-titleholder Joe Frazier in just two rounds via technical knockout. However, in the famous "Rumble in the Jungle" match in Zaire (now the Democratic Republic of the Congo) in 1974, he suffered his career loss to Muhammad Ali, ending his 40-match undefeated streak. Foreman retired in 1977 and became a preacher.
In an unexpected comeback, Foreman returned to the ring at the age of 38 and made history in 1994 when, at 45, he defeated Michael Moorer, who was 18 years his junior, to reclaim the heavyweight title. This achievement made him the oldest heavyweight champion in boxing history. Foreman retired for good after his final match in 1997, finishing with a professional record of 76 wins and 5 losses, including 68 wins by technical knockout.
Related News:
Founder of Henderson Land Group Lee Shau-kee passes away at 97
Renowned lyricist Jimmy Lo passes away peacefully in his sleep at 75
Comment