George Foreman, the legendary boxer and namesake of one of the most iconic cooking apparatuses of the last 30 years, passed away this weekend at the age of 76.
A statement confirming the Texas legend’s death was shared on his Instagram page. “Our hearts are broken. With profound sorrow, we announce the passing of our beloved George Edward Foreman Sr. who peacefully departed on March 21, 2025 surrounded by loved ones,” the statement read. “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 highlighted his achievements in the boxing ring, which included winning the heavyweight title twice and an Olympic gold medal. It also acknowledged Foreman’s humanitarian work and overall being, calling him a “deeply respected […] force for good, a man of discipline, conviction, and a protector of his legacy, fighting tirelessly to preserve his good name […] for his family.” As of publishing, Foreman’s cause of death is unknown.
George Foreman became a legend early on, winning a boxing gold medal at 19 during the 1968 Olympic Games in Mexico City. Five years later, he knocked out Joe Frazier in the second round of their bout to win his first heavyweight championship. The following year, he engaged in one of the biggest fights of all-time against Muhammad Ali dubbed the “Rumble In The Jungle,” though it ended with him taking a loss and handing over the title.
Foreman would retire four years later, but he wasn’t done winning titles. In 1994, seven years after returning to the combat sport, he won back the heavyweight championship at 45 years old by defeating Michael Moorer; with this victory, he became the oldest boxer to hold the belt.
Big George’s legacy will live on not just through the annals of boxing, but in kitchens all across the world. The George Foreman Lean Mean Grilling Machine, conceived in 1994, has sold over 100 million units worldwide and become a pop culture staple. VIBE sends its sincerest condolences to George Foreman’s family, friends, loved ones, and all of his fans.
5 Nov 1994: Winner George Foreman celebrates with his fans during a bout against Michael Moorer in Las Vegas, Nevada. Foreman won with a knockout in the tenth round. Mandatory Credit: Al Bello /Allsport
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