The world of sports and beyond mourned the loss of George Edward Foreman Sr., affectionately known as “Big George,” who passed away on March 21, 2025, at the age of 76. The two-time world heavyweight boxing champion, Olympic gold medalist, ordained minister, and successful entrepreneur left an indelible mark on multiple facets of American culture. While an official cause of death was not immediately released by his family, the news prompted an outpouring of tributes and reflections on his remarkable life and career.
A Family’s Announcement and Initial Reactions
The Foreman family announced his passing with a heartfelt statement on his official Instagram account. “It is with deep sadness that we announce that George Foreman passed away at the age of 76. George was a father, husband, grandfather, great-grandfather, and a two-time heavyweight champion. He was also an entrepreneur, minister, and speaker. George was a true American icon and his legacy will live on forever.” The statement emphasized his roles as a “devout preacher, a devoted husband, a loving father, and a proud grand and great grandfather,” highlighting his unwavering faith, humility, and purpose.
News of Foreman’s death spread quickly, prompting reactions from the boxing community, celebrities, and fans worldwide. Many reminisced about his legendary boxing career, his surprising comeback in his 40s, and his successful second act as a businessman and pitchman for the iconic George Foreman Grill.
Unconfirmed Theories and Online Speculation Regarding Cause of Death
In the immediate aftermath of George Foreman’s passing, with no official cause of death disclosed, various theories and speculations began to circulate online, particularly on social media platforms like X (formerly Twitter) and YouTube. It’s crucial to emphasize that none of these theories have been substantiated by the Foreman family or official sources.
Some of the unverified theories included:
Natural Causes: Given his age of 76 and the statement that he “peacefully departed,” many speculated that his death was due to natural age-related health issues.
Heart-Related Issues: Some online users pointed to the fact that Foreman, despite his athletic background, was a large man and that heart issues are a common cause of death in older individuals. One user jokingly speculated about a connection to the “fat-draining grill,” highlighting the irony.
Complications from Prior Health Issues: While Foreman was generally seen as vibrant in his later years, some recalled his age and the physical toll of a long boxing career, suggesting potential long-term health complications.
COVID-19 Vaccine: A particularly contentious and unsubstantiated theory emerged, fueled by the fact that Foreman had publicly promoted and received the COVID-19 vaccine. Some anti-vaccine proponents falsely linked his death to the vaccine, despite no evidence supporting this claim.
Long-Term Effects of Boxing: In the days following his death, one of Foreman’s daughters, Michi Foreman, in an interview with FOX 9, mentioned her belief that “all those years in the ring” contributed to his passing, suggesting a cumulative effect of the physical trauma of his boxing career.
It is important to reiterate that these are merely theories and speculations circulating online. The official cause of George Foreman’s death remains undisclosed as of late April 2025, respecting the family’s privacy during their time of mourning.
George Foreman’s Health in His Later Years
In the years leading up to his passing, George Foreman generally appeared to be in good health and remained active in public life. He continued to preach at his church in Houston and made public appearances, including at the premiere of his biographical movie, “Big George Foreman,” in 2023.
However, like many individuals in their later years, Foreman had spoken about some health issues. In a 2014 interview with AARP, he mentioned having had “about four knee operations.” He also humorously referenced his age and the aches and pains that come with it.
In a YouTube video from a few years prior to his death, Foreman recounted a profound experience after his 1977 fight against Jimmy Young, where he described feeling like he had died and had a spiritual awakening. He attributed this experience to a life-changing moment that led to his retirement from boxing and his dedication to his faith.
Despite these occasional mentions of health issues, there were no widespread reports of serious or debilitating illnesses before his sudden passing in March 2025.
An Overview of George Foreman’s Prominent Boxing Career
To understand the impact and legacy of George Foreman, it’s essential to revisit his remarkable boxing career:
Early Dominance and Olympic Gold: Foreman’s boxing journey began after a troubled youth, finding direction through the Job Corps. His raw power and imposing physique quickly made him a force in the amateur ranks, culminating in a gold medal in the heavyweight division at the 1968 Summer Olympics in Mexico City. His iconic waving of the American flag after his victory became a memorable moment.
First Reign as Heavyweight Champion: Turning professional in 1969, Foreman was a terror in the ring, winning his first 37 professional fights, most by devastating knockout. In 1973, he dethroned the previously undefeated Joe Frazier in a brutal two-round affair to become the world heavyweight champion. He successfully defended his title twice.
The Rumble in the Jungle: Foreman’s reign ended in the legendary “Rumble in the Jungle” in 1974 against Muhammad Ali. In a stunning upset, Ali employed his “rope-a-dope” strategy to tire out Foreman before knocking him out in the eighth round, marking Foreman’s first professional loss.
The Comeback and Second Title: After a spiritual awakening and a decade away from the sport, Foreman staged an improbable comeback in 1987 at the age of 38. Many initially dismissed his return, but Foreman persevered, racking up a series of victories. In 1994, at the age of 45, he achieved the unthinkable by knocking out the younger Michael Moorer to regain the unified WBA, IBF, and lineal heavyweight championships, becoming the oldest world
heavyweight champion in history. This remarkable feat cemented his status as a boxing legend.
Later Career and Retirement: Foreman continued to fight into his late 40s, eventually retiring for the second and final time in 1997 with an impressive record of 76 wins (68 by knockout) and 5 losses. He was inducted into the International Boxing Hall of Fame in 2003.
FAQs
Did George Foreman’s daughter offer any insight into a potential cause of death?
Yes, George Foreman’s daughter, Michi Foreman, in an interview with FOX 9, stated that she believed his cause of death was due to “all those years in the ring.” She mentioned that he seemed tired in their last moments together. However, this remains her personal belief and has not been confirmed by the family or officials.
Were there any speculative theories circulating among fans regarding his cause of death?
Following the announcement of his death, some fans on social media speculated about a potential link to the Covid-19 vaccine, citing old videos of him receiving the shot. Others jokingly mentioned a “heart attack” due to the “fat-draining” Foreman Grill. It is crucial to note that these theories are unsubstantiated, and the family has not confirmed any cause of death.
Did George Foreman have any significant health events during his boxing career that might have contributed to later health issues?
While not directly linked as a cause of death, it’s worth noting that after his loss to Jimmy Young in 1977, George Foreman reportedly experienced heatstroke and a concussion, spending a day in the ICU. Some believe this near-death experience contributed to his initial retirement from boxing and his subsequent spiritual awakening. His long and impactful boxing career undoubtedly subjected his body to significant physical stress.
In summary
George Foreman’s life was a remarkable journey of transformation, resilience, and achievement. From a fearsome and powerful boxer who dominated the heavyweight division to a born-again Christian, a successful entrepreneur, and a beloved public figure, he defied expectations at every turn. While the specific cause of his death remains private, the outpouring of grief and remembrance underscores the profound impact he had on the world.
“Big George” will be remembered not only for his powerful punches and his improbable comeback but also for his infectious personality, his dedication to his faith, and his entrepreneurial spirit that made him a household name. His legacy as a true American icon will undoubtedly endure for generations to come.
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