George Foreman, the iconic two-time heavyweight boxing champion, Olympic gold medalist, Christian minister, and household name behind the George Foreman Grill, passed away on March 21, 2025, in Houston, Texas. He was 76.
His death was confirmed by his family via an Instagram statement, which noted that he died peacefully in a hospital surrounded by loved ones. The news prompted tributes from across the sports, business, and faith communities, honoring a man whose life spanned extraordinary reinvention and enduring public affection.
George Foreman’s Cause of Death
As of March 22, 2025, no official cause of death has been released. Foreman’s brother, Roy Foreman, told reporters that the cause was currently unknown. There were no widely reported long-term illnesses, and his death came as a surprise to many. The family has asked for privacy as they navigate this time of mourning.
Foreman’s Final Days
Foreman had kept a relatively low profile in the months leading up to his passing. His last major public appearance was at the premiere of the 2023 biopic Big George Foreman: The Miraculous Story of the Once and Future Heavyweight Champion of the World, which chronicled his life and career.
In his final hours, he was hospitalized in Houston, reportedly with his wife, children, and extended family by his side. No emergency hospitalization or specific health event was made public beforehand. His passing, while peaceful, was unexpected, leaving fans and loved ones
George Foreman’s illnesses
Although no terminal illness was disclosed, Foreman, like many athletes of his era, had experienced various aches and health issues typical of aging boxers. However, he remained physically and mentally active well into his 70s. In 2022, he appeared on the TV show The Masked Singer, showcasing his enduring charisma.
He had not publicly discussed any degenerative conditions or ongoing treatments, and his family had not released any prior health alerts, adding to the unexpected nature of his passing.
George’s Faith
Faith was the central pillar of George Foreman’s life, especially following his dramatic spiritual transformation in 1977. After a loss to Jimmy Young in Puerto Rico, Foreman experienced what he described as a near-death encounter with God in the locker room. He later recalled collapsing and believing he had died and gone to hell—only to emerge reborn in his faith.
He immediately retired from boxing and devoted his life to Christianity. Foreman became an ordained minister and founded the George Foreman Youth and Community Center in Houston, where he regularly preached and mentored young people.
Even after returning to boxing in the late 1980s, Foreman maintained his ministry and made it clear that he fought not for ego or money—but to fund and promote his community outreach work. His sermons were laced with humor, humility, and hope, echoing his famous message:
“I want people to know that no matter how far you’ve fallen, there’s always a way back up with faith.”
Career highlights
George Foreman’s boxing career was one of the most storied in the history of the sport. His ability to return to the ring and reclaim the heavyweight crown at age 45 remains one of boxing’s greatest comeback stories.
- 1968 – Wins Olympic gold in Mexico City at age 19
- 1973 – Defeats Joe Frazier by TKO to become heavyweight champion
- 1974 – Loses to Muhammad Ali in the “Rumble in the Jungle”
- 1977 – Retires from boxing after a loss to Jimmy Young and a religious awakening
- 1987 – Begins an unlikely comeback at age 38
- 1991 – Loses a hard-fought decision to Evander Holyfield
- 1994 – Knocks out Michael Moorer to reclaim the title at age 45
- 1997 – Retires after a majority decision loss to Shannon Briggs
- 2003 – Inducted into the International Boxing Hall of Fame
His professional record: 76 wins (68 by knockout), 5 losses.
Chronology of George Foreman’s Major Fights
Here’s a snapshot of his most famous bouts:
- 1968 – Olympic Gold Medal: Defeated Ionas Chepulis (Mexico City)
- 1973 – Won World Title: Defeated Joe Frazier (TKO, Round 2)
- 1974 – Lost to Muhammad Ali (KO, Round 8 – “Rumble in the Jungle”)
- 1976 – Beat Joe Frazier again (TKO, Round 5)
- 1977 – Lost to Jimmy Young (Decision), then retired
- 1991 – Lost to Evander Holyfield (Unanimous Decision)
- 1994 – Defeated Michael Moorer (KO, Round 10)
- 1995 – Defeated Axel Schulz (Split Decision)
- 1997 – Final fight, lost to Shannon Briggs (Majority Decision)
The Foreman Grill years
Perhaps more lucrative than his boxing career was Foreman’s second act as a pitchman and entrepreneur. In 1994, he partnered with Salton Inc. to launch the George Foreman Lean Mean Fat-Reducing Grilling Machine. His affable image, signature smile, and famous tagline—“It’s a knockout!”—helped the grill become a kitchen staple.
Over 100 million units were sold worldwide. In 1999, Salton bought exclusive rights to use his name for $137.5 million, with Foreman reportedly receiving 75% of that deal.
He later endorsed mufflers, clothing, chicken, health products, and authored cookbooks tied to the grill. In media, he appeared in his own sitcom (George), made frequent TV guest appearances, and stayed involved with boxing as a commentator.
Books and Products
George Foreman was also an author and product creator. His written work ranged from inspirational memoirs to cookbooks and children’s titles.
Notable books include:
- By George: The Autobiography of George Foreman (1995)
- God in My Corner (2007)
- George Foreman’s Big Book of Grilling, Barbecue, and Rotisserie (2002)
- Let George Do It! (2005, with Fran Manushkin)
He also launched supplements, cooking tools, and personal care items—each reflecting his positive, practical persona. See more products.
George Foreman’s Legacy
George Foreman’s life defied expectations. He was a boxer, yes—but also a preacher, mentor, father, brand-builder, and beacon of second chances. He is remembered not just for his knockouts or titles, but for his humility, perseverance, and faith.
He inspired millions with his transformation—from angry young fighter to spiritual leader and media icon. Foreman’s story is proof that reinvention is always possible, no matter your past or your age.
He once said:
“The comeback is greater than the setback. Always.”
His Funeral Arrangements
As of publication, no official details have been released about Foreman’s funeral or memorial services. The family has asked for time and privacy as they make arrangements. It is not yet known whether a public service or state tribute will be held, though one is expected given his immense cultural impact.
George’s Surviving Family
George Foreman is survived by his wife, Mary Joan Martelly, whom he married in 1985. Together, they raised a large blended family.
He is survived by:
- Six daughters: Natalie, Leola, Michi, Georgetta, Isabella, and Courtney Foreman
- Five sons: all named George Edward Foreman, distinguished by nicknames—George Jr., George III (“Monk”), George IV (“Big Wheel”), George V (“Red”), and George VI (“Little Joey”)
- Fifteen grandchildren
- Three great-grandchildren
His daughter, Freeda Foreman, a former professional boxer, passed away in 2019.
He famously said of his sons:
“I named all my sons George Edward Foreman so they would always have something in common. If one goes down, they all go down. And they all get up.”
George Foreman FAQ
Frequently asked questions about George Foreman and the end of his life.
What did George Foreman die of?
As of March 22, 2025, the cause of George Foreman’s death has not been officially confirmed. His family stated that he passed away peacefully in a Houston hospital, and his brother Roy Foreman said the cause was not yet known.
Was George Foreman married?
Yes. George Foreman was married to Mary Joan Martelly since 1985. The couple remained together for nearly 40 years. He had been previously married four times before that.
How many children did George Foreman have?
Foreman had 12 children—five sons and seven daughters. Notably, all five of his sons were named George Edward Foreman, distinguished by nicknames such as “Monk,” “Big Wheel,” and “Red.” His daughter Freeda Foreman, who became a boxer, died in 2019.
Why did George Foreman name all his sons George?
Foreman said he named all his sons George Edward Foreman so that they would always have something in common and “stick together.” He also joked that it made things easier when he wanted to call them all at once.
What was George Foreman’s boxing record?
Foreman retired with a professional record of 76 wins (68 by knockout) and 5 losses. He was a two-time heavyweight champion and won an Olympic gold medal in 1968.
What is the George Foreman Grill?
The George Foreman Grill is a countertop electric grill designed to cook food quickly while reducing fat. Launched in the mid-1990s, it became a massive success due to Foreman’s endorsement and sold over 100 million units worldwide.
Did George Foreman really make more money from the grill than boxing?
Yes. Foreman reportedly earned more than $200 million from the grill, including a $137.5 million buyout from Salton Inc. for rights to use his name. This amount exceeded his total boxing earnings.
Was George Foreman religious?
Very much so. After a near-death experience in 1977, he became a born-again Christian, retired from boxing, and became an ordained minister. He founded the George Foreman Youth and Community Center in Houston.
Did George Foreman ever act or appear on TV?
Yes. In addition to hundreds of commercials, Foreman had his own sitcom (George) in the 1990s, made guest appearances on various shows, and was a ringside boxing commentator. He also appeared on The Masked Singer in 2022.
Is there a movie about George Foreman’s life?
Yes. A biopic titled Big George Foreman: The Miraculous Story of the Once and Future Heavyweight Champion of the World was released in 2023. The film chronicles his early life, boxing career, spiritual transformation, and comeback.