Introduction to George Foreman
George Foreman, the fearsome heavyweight who lost the “Rumble in the Jungle” to Muhammad Ali before his inspiring second act as a 45-year-old champion and a successful businessman, died Friday night. He was 76.
Early Life and Career
Foreman’s family announced his death on social media. A native Texan, Foreman began his boxing career as an Olympic gold medalist who inspired fear as he climbed to the peak of the heavyweight division by stopping Joe Frazier in 1973. His formidable aura evaporated only a year later when Ali pulled off one of the most audacious victories in boxing history in Zaire, baiting and taunting Foreman into losing his belt in one of the greatest fights ever staged.
The Rumble in the Jungle
Foreman left the sport a few years later, but returned after a 10-year absence and a self-described religious awakening. He then pulled off one of the most spectacular knockouts in boxing history in 1994, flooring Michael Moorer – 19 years his junior – to claim Moorer’s two heavyweight belts. Down on the scorecards, Foreman landed a two-punch combination that laid Moorer down for the count. At age 45 and 299 days, Foreman was the unified heavyweight champion of the world, the oldest man in history to hold boxing’s greatest prize.
Notable Fights
Some of his notable fights include:
- The fight against Axel Schulz during the second round of their IBF heavyweight championship fight in Las Vegas on April 22, 1995. Foreman won in a 12-round majority decision.
- The fight against Joe Frazier in Jamaica in January 1973 to win the belt.
- The fight against Ken Norton before accepting the fight with Ali in the now-immortal bout staged in Africa by promoter Don King.
Later Career and Legacy
Foreman’s transformation into an inspirational figure was complete, and he fought only four more times before moving onto his next career as a genial businessman, pitchman and occasional actor. He was best known as the face of the George Foreman Grill, a simple cooking machine which sold more than 100 million units and made him much wealthier than his sport ever did. In 1999, he sold the commercial rights to the George Foreman Grill for $138 million.
Personal Life
Foreman had 12 children, including five sons who are all famously named George Edward Foreman. “Legendary boxing champion, life-changing preacher, husband, father, grand- and great-grandfather and the best friend you could have,” WBC President Mauricio Sulaiman wrote on social media. “His memory is now eternal, may Big George rest in peace.”
Conclusion
George Foreman was a boxing legend and a successful entrepreneur. His legacy extends beyond his achievements in the ring to his impact on the business world and his role as a family man. He will be remembered for his impressive boxing career, his entrepreneurial spirit, and his dedication to his family.
FAQs
- Q: How old was George Foreman when he died?
A: George Foreman was 76 years old when he died. - Q: What was George Foreman’s most notable achievement in boxing?
A: George Foreman’s most notable achievement in boxing was becoming the unified heavyweight champion of the world at the age of 45. - Q: What was the name of the cooking machine that made George Foreman wealthy?
A: The cooking machine that made George Foreman wealthy was the George Foreman Grill. - Q: How many children did George Foreman have?
A: George Foreman had 12 children, including five sons who are all named George Edward Foreman.
