George Foreman, the esteemed two-time heavyweight boxing champion and successful product pitchman, passed away at 76, as announced by his family. Known for his powerful punches, Foreman’s legacy includes winning gold at the 1968 Olympics and reclaiming the heavyweight title in 1994.
After his famous loss to Muhammad Ali in the 1974 “Rumble in the Jungle,” Foreman made a remarkable comeback, embracing a jovial persona and achieving fame through his electric grilling products.
Raised in poverty in Texas, Foreman credited the Job Corps with transforming his life and redirecting his aggression into boxing, ultimately becoming an American icon of resilience and self-improvement.
George Foreman, a formidable heavyweight boxer, faced a devastating loss in 1977 that led him to retire and become an ordained minister. After a decade, he returned to boxing at 315 pounds to support a youth center he established.
Foreman won 24 consecutive matches before losing to Evander Holyfield in 1991 and later became the oldest heavyweight champion at 45 by knocking out Michael Moorer. He retired in 1997 with a record of 76 wins and five losses.
Foreman had five sons and multiple daughters, marrying Mary Joan Martelly in 1985. Post-retirement, he became a successful product pitchman, notably for an electric grill.
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