The family has announced that George Foreman, the oldest heavyweight boxing champion, died at the age of 76.
Foreman enjoyed a remarkable career, becoming the oldest in 1994 when he knocked out Michael Moorer in the 10th round to win the heavyweight championship.
He won the heavyweight title twice, including the Olympic gold medal in 1968.
The triumph made him the oldest heavyweight champion in history at the age of 45 years and 299 days old.
He lost his first title to Muhammad Ali in their famous Rumble in the Jungle fight in 1974. But overall, he boasted an astonishing total of 76 wins, including 68 knockouts, almost double that of Ali.
Foreman’s family confirmed his death in a statement on Saturday.
The statement reads, “Our hearts are broken. 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.”
The statement added: “A humanitarian, an Olympian, and two-time heavyweight champion of the world, he was deeply respected—a force for good, a man of discipline and conviction, and a protector of his legacy, fighting tirelessly to preserve his good name—for his family.”
He lost his first title to Muhammad Ali in their famous Rumble in the Jungle fight in 1974. But overall, he boasted an astonishing total of 76 wins, including 68 knockouts.
Foreman came out of retirement in 1987 to raise money for a youth centre he founded. He won 24 matches before losing to Evander Holyfield after 12 rounds in 1991.
In 1994, Foreman knocked out undefeated Michael Moorer to become the oldest-ever heavyweight champion at age 45.
Foreman was married five times. He has a dozen children, including five sons who are all named George.
The sporting world has paid tribute to Foreman, with many describing him as a legend and an inspirational figure.
Heavyweight champion and Olympian Mike Tyson said his contributions to boxing will never be forgotten.
Tyson said, “Condolences to George Foreman’s family. His contribution to boxing and beyond will never be forgotten.”
The Ring magazine, popularly called the Bible of Boxing, has paid tribute to Foreman, describing him as one of the greatest heavyweights of all time.
The statement reads: “The Ring is deeply saddened to learn of the passing of boxing legend George Foreman,” it said in a post on social media.
“[He] will be remembered as an icon of the sport forever. Our deepest sympathies are with George’s friends and family at this time.”
Tributes As Oldest Heavyweight Champion Foreman Dies At 76 is first published on The Whistler Newspaper
Source: The Whistler
