Two-time Heavyweight Boxer George Forman Dies

Former heavyweight champion boxer and businessman, George Foreman, has passed away at the age of 76. In a statement released by Foreman’s family on Friday March 21st, the family announced to the public that the former boxer had passed away. 

“Our hearts are broken. A devout preacher, a devoted husband, loving father, and a proud grand and great grandfather, he lived a life marked by unwavering faith, humility, and purpose.” 

The family continued to describe Former, acknowledging him as “A humanitarian, an Olympian and a two time heavyweight champion of the world, he was deeply respected- a force for good, a man of discipline, conviction, and a protector of his legacy, fighting tirelessly to preserve his good name for his family,” per the BBC. 

The news of Former’s passing came as a surprise to many, especially boxing fans. 

“When I heard the news of his passing I was kind of shocked because I’ve heard about George Foreman before from that fact that he was a world-famous boxer to his famous grill,” said Jalen Thimes, a graduating senior sociology major. 

Tributes from celebrities came pouring in over social media as news of Foreman’s death hit news outlets. One of the most notable came from former heavyweight world champion Mike Tyson saying Foreman’s “contribution to boxing and beyond will never be forgotten.” 

Known as "Big George" in the ring, Foreman built one of the most remarkable and enduring careers in the sport. He won an Olympic gold medal in 1968 and claimed the world heavyweight title twice, 21 years apart, the second time making him the oldest champion in history at the age of 45, per the BBC. 

Foreman was not just known for his boxing but for also being a successful businessman. Soon after his retirement from boxing in 1997, Foreman would become an ad pitchman for his George Foreman grill.

The grill would become a hit as soon as it hit the market in 1994, being purchased by millions, even going on to eclipse his career in boxing. Thanks in part to his memorable catchphrase, the “Lean Mean Grilling Machine.” 

The grill would soon become a staple within the black community. Foreman’s impact and legacy were not just felt in the world of sports but worldwide. 

“One of the legends, a great one, is gone, and he’s never coming back, said Nehemiah Burton, a third kinesiology major.