Some knew George Foreman for the double-sided fat-reducing cooking machine that bears his identify and earned him an estimated $200 million in endorsement cash.
However most bear in mind Foreman as one of many best professional boxers in history with a 76-5 profession document (68 wins by knockout) and a Corridor of Fame profession that included IBA, IBF, NABF, WBA, WBC, WBO, WBU and The Ring heavyweight championship runs.
And although Foreman had loads of signature wins on his resume together with Joe Frazier (twice), Michael Moorer, and Ken Norton, plus he competed in arguably two of the largest boxing matches in historical past — “The Battle of the Century” in opposition to Joe Frazier in 197 and “The Rumble within the Jungle” in opposition to Muhammad Ali in 1974 — many consider Foreman’s white whale was at all times Mike Tyson.
The 2 tried to struggle each other a number of occasions after they had been each nonetheless lively fighters, they usually got here near finalizing a bout settlement again in 1995, however the deal by no means materialized.
And with the information of Foreman’s dying on the age of 76 on Friday, Tyson took to social media to pay tribute to one among boxing’s legends and a man he at all times dreamed of stepping within the ring with.
“Condolences to George Foreman’s household. His contribution to boxing and past won’t ever be forgotten,” Tyson tweeted together with two photographs of him and Foreman collectively.
Condolences to George Foreman’s household. His contribution to boxing and past won’t ever be forgotten. pic.twitter.com/Xs5QjMukqr
— Mike Tyson (@MikeTyson) March 22, 2025
Tyson had a adorned boxing profession as nicely with a 50-7 document and stints as WBA, WBC, IBF, IBO, and The Ring heavyweight champion, however these near Tyson consider a struggle in opposition to Foreman was one bout he at all times wished.
Foreman’s household posted the information of his passing on Instagram.
“With profound sorrow, we announce the passing of our beloved George Edward Foreman Sr. who peacefully departed on March 21, 2025, surrounded by family members,” Foreman’s household wrote. “A religious preacher, a faithful husband, a loving father, and a proud grand and nice grandfather, he lived a life marked by unwavering religion, humility, and goal.
“A humanitarian, an Olympian, and two time heavyweight champion of the world, He was deeply revered — a pressure for good, a person of self-discipline, conviction, and a protector of his legacy, combating tirelessly to protect his good identify— for his household. We’re grateful for the outpouring of affection and prayers, and kindly ask for privateness as we honor the extraordinary lifetime of a person we had been blessed to name our personal.”
This text first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.