Former American boxing heavyweight champion and legend George Foreman has died at the age of 76 in Houston, Texas, Afrosport reports.
He is considered one of the most iconic names in boxing, first winning an Olympic gold in 1968 and winning the world heavyweight title twice, with his second making him the oldest champion in history at the age of 45.
He famously fought Muhammad Ali in the ‘Rumble in the Jungle’ in Kinshasa in 1974, and boasts of 76 wins during his illustrious career, including 68 knockouts.
“Our hearts are broken. 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 family said in an Instagram post.
“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.”
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He retired in 1977 and became an ordained minister, establishing the Church of the Lord Jesus Christ in Houston.
