George Foreman: Remembering a Boxing Legend, Grill King, and Beloved Icon

George Foreman BioSnap a weekly updated Biography.

Championship boxer. Grill king. Force of personality. The world is still reeling from news that George Foreman, age 76, passed away on March 21, 2025, surrounded by loved ones. His family announced the loss across his official Instagram account only days ago, sparking an outpouring of tributes from every corner of the sports and entertainment worlds. According to AOL News and multiple major headlines, celebrities and athletes took to social media to remember Foreman’s legacy. John Cusack called him more than a legend and “just a wonderful spirit” in person, while Viola Davis described Foreman as “a man of vision…scope, talent, and enormous heart,” posting a heartfelt tribute and urging him to "keep pouring down that love" from above. Sheryl Lee Ralph, his co-star from his sitcom days, reminisced over old photos and recalled his infectious humility and desire to learn and grow. Chuck D from Public Enemy, comedian Jeff Dye, and a swath of athletes and commentators were quick to share memories or simply “RIP Champ.”

The sports media’s focus has been on Foreman’s boxing prowess—two-time world heavyweight champion, Olympic gold medalist, and the oldest heavyweight champion ever, thanks to his jaw-dropping knockout of Michael Moorer in 1994. A viral Instagram discussion this week highlighted his astonishing 81-fight career with 89% knockout wins, underscoring the awe he inspired in the ring.

But Foreman’s commercial saga is getting nearly as much ink as his jabs and uppercuts. Stories are resurfacing about the George Foreman Grill, which AOL notes became both a pop culture icon and a financial jackpot—earning him an estimated $240 million in rights and sales deals that eclipsed his boxing purses and placed his name on over 100 million grills world-wide.

Personal details are again in the news: Foreman is survived by his wife of four decades, Mary Joan Martelly, and 11 children. Media are revisiting his spiritual life as a preacher and his reputation for kindness and generosity, not just as a boxer or entrepreneur. With business activities put on an evident pause and no upcoming public appearances since news broke, the focus is on remembering rather than looking forward. In the days since the formal announcement of his passing, Foreman’s social channels have become digital altars, with fans sharing memories, favorite knockout moments, and the occasional grill recipe as tributes. No major unconfirmed rumors or speculative stories have emerged since the death announcement—coverage is unified by respect and collective nostalgia for a once-in-a-generation life.

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