Anthony Joshua and Mike Tyson have led the tributes to George Foreman after the iconic heavyweight boxer died at the age of 76.
The two-time heavyweight champion was most famous for his legendary fight with Muhammad Ali – known as the ‘Rumble In The Jungle’ – in the Democratic Republic of the Congo which was then known as Zaire.
Foreman’s family confirmed the sad news on his Instagram page on Saturday morning.
Their statement read: “Our hearts are broken. With profound sorrow, we announced the passing of our beloved George Edward Foreman St. 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.”
Foreman’s legendary career which also saw him win an Olympic Gold in 1968, led to him being inducted into the World Boxing Hall of Fame.
60,000 people in attendance in Africa & 50 Million watched around the world.
Ali a huge underdog vs Foreman.
“The Rumble in the Jungle” 1974
One of the most memorable events in sports history. #RIPGeorgeForeman pic.twitter.com/csZL5vhuBc
— Kevin Smith (@Global_Smith) March 22, 2025
Tributes Pour In For Legendary Boxer
Following the news of George Foreman’s death at the age of 76, tributes have flooded in for the legendary boxer.
Anthony Joshua reposted the family statement and wrote: “RIP Champ.”
Mike Tyson shared two photos of the pair together and said: “Condolences to George Foreman’s family. His contribution to boxing and beyond will never be forgotten.”
Condolences to George Foreman’s family. His contribution to boxing and beyond will never be forgotten. pic.twitter.com/Xs5QjMukqr
— Mike Tyson (@MikeTyson) March 22, 2025
Boxing promoter Frank Warren added: ‘Boxing has lost one of its true legends, George Foreman.
‘A gentleman who I had the honour of promoting his only UK fight in 1990. I have fond memories of introducing George to two of my sons, Francis and George, in this photo.
‘I send my condolences to his family and friends. Rest in peace George.’
Ring announcer Michael Buffer also tweeted his own tribute writing: “I’m totally heartbroken with news of my dear friend of more than 35 years George Foreman passing away.
“I’m finding it difficult to deal with. I’ll collect my thoughts and have more to say soon about a man that I (and so many others loved and respected.”
I’m totally heartbroken with news of my dear friend of more than 35 years George Foreman passing away.
I’m finding it difficult to deal with.
I’ll collect my thoughts and have more to say soon about a man that I (and so many others) loved and respected💔 pic.twitter.com/MYjFrrTCmk— Michael Buffer (@Michael_Buffer) March 22, 2025
Legends of other sports have also posted their tribute messages including former LA Lakers basketball star Magic Johnson.
He said: “I attended so many of George’s championship fights over his career. He was a knockout artist in the ring, and it was a pleasure getting to know him not only as a boxer but as a man. After leaving the ring, he turned into an amazing businessman — I even bought one of the first George Foreman grills! Cookie and I will be praying for his family during this time.”
When Was George Foreman’s Last Fight?
George Foreman had an incredible 81 fights with his first being a victory over Donald Walheim in June 1969.
The “Rumble in the Jungle” against Muhammad Ali was his 41st professional fight. It was also the first of which he suffered a defeat in his career.
His last fight was a majority decision loss to Shannon Briggs in November 1997 – when he was 48-years-old.
How Many Children Did George Foreman Have?
George Foreman had 12 children – five sons and seven daughters.
All five of his sons were named George (George Jr, George III, George IV, George V and George VI).
Explaining why they were all called George, he said: “I named all my sons George Edward Foreman so they would always have something in common. I say to them, ‘If one of us goes up, then we all go up together, and if one goes down, we all go down together'”
His seven daughters are Natalia, Leola, Freeda, Michi, Georgetta, Isabella, and Courtney.
He was married to Mary Joan Martelly from 1985 until his death and had four previous marriages.
George Foreman’s Cause Of Death
George Foreman’s cause of death was not confirmed in his family’s tribute statement and has not yet been officially revealed.
The New York Times though revealed that Foreman died at a hospital in Houston, Texas.
