George Foreman was an inspirational presence right up until the final weeks of his life. The legendary heavyweight boxer passed away aged 76 on Friday surrounded by his family, prompting an outpouring of tributes from the world of boxing and beyond. “Our hearts are broken,” his family said in a statement. “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. 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. “A humanitarian, an Olympian, and 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.” Foreman leaves behind an incredible legacy in boxing, having claimed a remarkable 76 wins and 68 knockouts across his storied career. The American, known as Big George, won two world heavyweight titles 21 years apart and remains the oldest champion in history at 45. The story of how he claimed that second title by defeating Michael Moorer in 1994 is quite something. Foreman initially retired from boxing in 1977 and became an ordained minister at the Church of the Lord Jesus Christ in Texas, but he returned to the sport in 1987 and immediately went on a 24-bout winning streak before losing to Evander Holyfield in 1991. In 1994 he beat the previously undefeated Moorer to become the heavyweight champion of the world for the second time at the age of 45. It is that achievement which was the subject of his final post on Instagram on November 6, 2024. Sharing a photo from that day, Foreman wrote: “30 years ago today! I started my day believing ‘All things are possible if we only believe.’ The power of a prayer; great or small. ( Now a prayer over my Lunch) ‘that I only have 1, helping’.” Foreman’s most famous moment came in 1974 when he fought Muhammad Ali in Zaire in the ‘Rumble in the Jungle’. He also won the heavyweight gold medal at the 1968 Olympics in Mexico City, aged 19, and, after turning professional, demolished reigning champion Joe Frazier in Kingston, Jamaica, in 1973. His status has been shown by the tributes that have poured in. Legendary heavyweight Mike Tyson wrote: "Condolences to George Foreman’s family. His contribution to boxing and beyond will never be forgotten." Former British boxer Tony Bellew wrote: “RIP to one of the greatest human beings to ever put on boxing gloves.. This man was truly amazing! There is no doubt imo he’s the greatest puncher boxing has ever seen.. Rest easy king, the world is a lesser place without you.” YouTuber-turned-boxer Jake Paul added: “Rest in Peace George Foreman and condolences to his entire family. He did great things inside and outside of the ring. Big George Forever Goated.”