(This story was originally published on usatoday.com)
Legendary boxer George Foreman passed away at the age of 76, according to a statement released by his family on his official Instagram account on Friday night.
The cause of the death was not initially revealed by the family.
Foreman has played 81 total battles in his career with a 76-5 overall record (68 wins due to knockouts). He was led to both the Boxing Hall of Fame and the International Boxing Hall of Fame.
He retired in 1997 at the age of 48. At the age of 46, he became the oldest world heavyweight champion in history.
Our hearts are broken. In deep sadness, we announce the passing of our beloved George Edward Foreman Sr., who set out for peace on March 21, 2025, surrounded by our loved ones. A respectful preacher, devoted husband, loving father, and a proud grand and great grandfather, he lived a life characterized by unwavering faith, humility and purpose.
A humanitarian, Olympian and two-time heavyweight champion of the world, he was deeply respected – the protector of power, discipline, belief, and his legacy for good, and a tireless fight to maintain his good name for his family –
We appreciate the pouring of love and prayer and kindly ask for privacy as we respect the extraordinary lives of those who have been blessed to call ourselves.
He lamented the death of Foreman, notable from the combat sports community as a whole:
Meaning of the sadness of George Foreman’s family. His contributions to boxing and other things will never be forgotten. pic.twitter.com/xs5qjmukqr
– Mike Tyson (@miketyson) March 22, 2025
Give me a pagnit Dol peace to George Foreman and his whole family. He did great things in and out of the ring. Big George went forever
– Jakepaul (@jakepaul) March 22, 2025
Rip George Foreman Absolute Legend🥊
– Billy Quarantillo (@billyqmma) March 22, 2025
I rarely felt like I was meeting a cultural icon.
when @GeorgeForeman He walked it into an electrified room.
I can imagine him doing the same thing in heaven ❤️🙏🏽 pic.twitter.com/hxfubndbcz
– Criscyborg.com (@criscyborg) March 22, 2025
Sad news for me and for the world of boxing… The last boxing pillar of an unforgettable era has passed away today… Please rest in peace with his soul, Big George Foreman! 💔🥊 pic.twitter.com/cufeievyom
-TurkiAlalshikh (@turki_alshikh) March 22, 2025
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