Texas Mourns Boxing Great George Foreman, Who Dies at 76

As announced through social media, George Foreman, a two-time heavyweight boxing champion and one of Houston's most well-known sports stars, died on Friday at 76.

Foreman, the fifth of seven children raised by a single mother, was born in Marshall, Texas, and grew up in Houston's Fifth Ward. After leaving Wheatley High School, he found meaning in the Job Corps, where he learned to box at 15.

During his boxing career, Foreman won the Olympic gold in 1968 and defeated Joe Frazier to earn the heavyweight title in 1973. "The Rumble in the Jungle," his 1974 fight with Muhammad Ali, is still regarded as one of the most well-known fights in boxing history.

In 1987, at 38, Foreman made an incredible return to boxing after a ten-year break. In 1994, he shocked everyone by defeating Michael Moorer at 45, becoming the oldest heavyweight champion in history.

In addition to being a boxer, Foreman was a devoted Christian, businessman, and civic leader in Houston. He sold over 100 million George Foreman Grills, making it a household name.

Mike Tyson declared, "His impact on boxing and beyond will always be remembered."

The world and Houston mourn an absolute legend.

‍