Remembering George Foreman: The Heavyweight Champion Who Redefined Boxing and Business

Alright, y’all. We gotta talk about a legend today. A man who was larger than life—inside the ring and outside of it. The great George Foreman has passed away at the age of 76.

And let me be very clear: boxing just lost one of its all-time greats.

Now, if you only know Foreman from his grill commercials, let me educate you real quick.

This man was an absolute problem in that ring.

Back in ’73, he obliterated Joe Frazier—obliterated—knocking him down six times in two rounds to take the heavyweight title.

That wasn’t just a win. That was a statement.

But of course, when we talk Foreman, we have to talk about the “Rumble in the Jungle.”

1974.

Zaire.

The man standing across from him? The one and only Muhammad Ali.

And listen, Foreman wasn’t just favored—he was supposed to annihilate Ali.

He had that raw power, that menacing presence.

But Ali had the smarts, the finesse, the legendary “rope-a-dope.” And when Foreman went down in the eighth round, that changed everything. He lost that fight, lost his belt, but not his greatness.

Foreman’s first career was dominant. But his second career? That was just straight-up miraculous.

After retiring in ’77, Big George walked away from boxing. Found God. Became a preacher.

But a decade later, at damn near 40 years old, he came back.

And let’s be honest, when he first stepped back in that ring, people laughed at him. They said he was too old, too slow.

Said he was just looking for a check.

But Foreman wasn’t playing any games.

He started knocking dudes out again. And in 1994, at 45 YEARS OLD, he did the unthinkable—knocked out Michael Moorer and became the oldest heavyweight champion in boxing history.

Let that marinate for a second. 45 years old. In a sport where 35 is ancient, Foreman reclaimed the throne. That’s not just boxing history—that’s one of the greatest comeback stories ever.

But here’s what made George Foreman special—he wasn’t just a fighter. He was one of the nicest dudes in sports history. You talk to anybody who knew him; they’ll tell you—this man had the biggest heart. Always had time for people. Always dropping wisdom. He didn’t just throw hands; he threw love to the world.

And let’s not forget—he took that boxing money and flipped it.

The George Foreman Grill? That thing sold over 100 million units worldwide! 100 MILLION! 

And best believe, Big George got PAID off that. The man turned himself into a business mogul, a brand, an icon beyond the sport.

So, the question has to be asked—where does George Foreman rank all-time?

Is he Top 5? Top 10? Look, the resume speaks for itself—Olympic gold medalist. Two-time heavyweight champion. Knockout machine. And the greatest second act in boxing history.

For me? I’m saying he's in the Top 5.

Some might argue Top 10, and I won’t be mad at that.

He was a wrecking ball in the ‘70s, an inspiration in the ‘90s, and a beloved figure until his last breath.

Rest easy, Big George.

You gave us everything. And you left the game—and the world—better than you found it. 🥊