George Foreman, two-time heavyweight boxing champion and Olympian, dead at 76

George Foreman, a legendary figure in the world of sports, passed away at the age of 76. Known for his incredible second act in boxing, Foreman reclaimed the heavyweight title after coming out of retirement. His remarkable journey from the boxing ring to becoming a celebrated product pitchman has left a lasting legacy.

Described by his family as a humanitarian, Olympian, and two-time heavyweight champion, Foreman was a force for good and a man of discipline and conviction. Born in Marshall, Texas, in 1949, he grew up in poverty in Houston, raised by a single mother. Dropping out of junior high school, Foreman found himself involved in street robberies until the Job Corps program rescued him and encouraged him to pursue boxing.

At the age of 19, Foreman won the heavyweight boxing gold medal at the 1968 Olympics in Mexico City. Turning professional, he went on a 37-match winning streak before facing Joe Frazier and winning the title. However, his most famous fight was against Muhammad Ali in the “Rumble in the Jungle” in Zaire, where Ali emerged victorious in the eighth round.

Devastated by the loss, Foreman retired in 1977 and became an ordained minister. A decade later, he made a surprising comeback to the ring, winning 24 consecutive matches and eventually reclaiming the heavyweight title at the age of 45 by defeating Michael Moorer.

Foreman’s last fight was in 1997, concluding his career with an impressive record of 76 wins and five losses. He was married five times and had numerous children. Beyond boxing, Foreman became a well-known product pitchman, most notably for the George Foreman Grill. His partnership with home appliance maker Salton Inc. resulted in a lucrative deal that solidified his status as a successful entrepreneur.

Throughout the 1990s and beyond, Foreman remained a beloved figure, endorsing various products with his signature charm and enthusiasm. His autobiography, “By George,” highlighted his passion for selling products and connecting with audiences, much like his approach to preaching.

George Foreman’s legacy as a boxing icon, successful entrepreneur, and beloved personality will continue to inspire generations to come. His journey from humble beginnings to global fame serves as a testament to the power of perseverance, hard work, and self-improvement. George Foreman will be remembered not only for his accomplishments in the ring but also for his impact outside of it.