**George Foreman: Boxing Legend and Influential Figure Passes Away at 76**

Foreman's journey from Olympic gold medalist to a two-time world heavyweight champion, followed by a successful return and ventures beyond boxing, paints a picture of resilience and reinvention.

George Edward Foreman, commonly known as Big George, has died at the age of 76, as announced by his family. A figure synonymous with heavyweight boxing, Foreman garnered glory throughout his career, notably winning the Olympic gold medal in 1968 before rising through the professional ranks from 1969 onwards, clinching the world heavyweight title twice during his illustrious career.

Born on January 10, 1949, in Marshall, Texas, Foreman’s ascent in boxing was marked by his remarkable speed and powerful punches, ending his amateur run with that memorable Olympic victory where he waved an American flag, proclaiming both personal pride and national honor.

In 1973, he claimed the world heavyweight championship after an impressive knockout of Joe Frazier, establishing himself as a force in boxing. However, his moment of fame turned to a heartbreak in 1974 when he lost the title to Muhammad Ali in what became a legendary bout known as the "Rumble in the Jungle." Reflecting on that defeat, Foreman described it as a humbling experience that shifted his pride to humility, recounting Ali as "the toughest human being" he encountered.

In 1977, following a loss to Jimmy Young, Foreman transformed his life by turning to religion and becoming an ordained minister in 1978. He founded the George Foreman Youth and Community Center and dedicated his life to preaching, claiming that his loss to Ali ultimately became the doorway to his mission of outreach and support for youth through his new ministry.

Returning to the boxing scene in 1987 after almost a decade away, Foreman's comeback led him to new victories, culminating in his recognition as the oldest heavyweight champion at age 45 in 1994. Alongside his boxing achievements, he ventured into commercial successes such as the George Foreman Grill, better known as the "Lean Mean Grilling Machine."

By the end of his career in 1997, Foreman had accumulated an extraordinary record of 76 wins with only 5 losses. He was a dedicated father to 12 children, having five sons named George, ensuring they always had a shared bond. Even after his retirement from boxing, Foreman maintained a vibrant presence in the community, preaching multiple times a week until his passing, consistent with the enduring values of love and dedication he championed throughout his life.