George Foreman breached the informal rules in boxing.
Facebook Twitter Whatsapp E-Mail Print Copy Link George Foreman, infamous for his pulverizing blows in the ring, has passed away at age 76. Renowned for his unbeatable status until 1974, he's best known for his legendary "Rumble in the Jungle" defeat against Muhammad Ali.
A stone-faced Foreman, with brute strength and massive hooks, tested the limits of journalists and photographers in 1974. The powerful American demonstrated his formidable force by making quick work of a heavy bag, leaving spectators concerned about Muhammad Ali's fate.
Fast forward to today, and Foreman's legacy endures. Foreman died peacefully surrounded by loved ones, leaving behind a remarkable life filled with admiration from fans and the giants of the sport. His family, speaking of his indomitable spirit, referred to him as "a force for good" and "a man of discipline and conviction." Revered champ Mike Tyson echoed these sentiments, praising Foreman's contribution to the sport and its impact lasting beyond boxing.
George Foreman in the '70s was a frightening figure. Bred in violence and dropping out of school at 15, his career as a prize fighter seemed to cement his destructive lifestyle. Critics felt his willingness to inflict pain upon opponents was part of his nature.
Ali's Epic Defeat to the Knockout Machine
In 1973, Joe Frazier was convinced of this as he took on Foreman in Jamaica. The 1.93-meter giant overwhelmed him, sending him to the ground six times in just two rounds. To many, it seemed Ali would suffer an even worse fate in the "Rumble in the Jungle," considered a surely fatal fight for the legendary champion.
But, Ali gained the upper hand with a clever strategy that left Foreman spent. The knockout machine, growing tired and weary in the heat, gave Ali the chance to come back and strike his final blow, dethroning Foreman in the eighth round.
Houston, We've Got a Priest
The defeat was Raymond "Big George" Foreman's downfall, leading to a crippling depression and self-doubt that led him to hang up his gloves. Despite an epic five-round brawl with Ron Lyle in 1976, Foreman collapsed after an unexpected loss against Jimmy Young the following year, attributing the incident to a "divine awakening."
Foreman transformed his life, studying the Bible and taking on a role as a pastor at the "Church of the Lord Jesus Christ" in his hometown of Houston. The formerly fearsome fighter became a kind-hearted, revered shepherd to his congregation.
Foreman's Incredible Career Comeback
Foreman couldn't resist the pull of boxing, breaking the unwritten law "They Never Come Back." After becoming a father to five sons named George, Foreman returned to the ring in the '80s. Historians consider his comeback as one of the most remarkable in boxing history.
Iconic Fights with Tyson, Holyfield, and a Legendary Title Win in Las Vegas
Foreman made an unexpected comeback in the ring, famously defeating former world title challenger Gerry Cooney in 1990. A highly-anticipated fight against Mike Tyson fell through due to Tyson's imprisonment. Instead, the 42-year-old Foreman stepped into the ring against world champion Evander Holyfield in Atlantic City in April 1991. Despite being heavily outmatched on paper, Foreman showcased his extraordinary determination, pushing Holyfield to the brink in a grueling battle. Although Foreman lost on points, there was no denying his indomitable spirit and impressive display of force.
Fast forward three years, and Foreman earned an astonishing title victory against Michael Moorer in Las Vegas. At 45 years old, Foreman became the oldest heavyweight champion in history, impressing fans and analysts with his resurgence.
Although his career wasn't without controversy - overlooking contentious points decisions and disputed victories - Foreman's legacy remains undeniably significant. Never one to shy away from a challenge, George Foreman embodied the spirit of the fighter, embodying a powerful career both in and out of the ring.
Originally published on January 10, 2024, marking the 75th birthday of George Foreman.
Source: ntv.de
- Boxing
- Mike Tyson
- Muhammad Ali
I'm not going to be a big fan of this sad turn of events, but it's hard not to admire George Foreman's second act. While he was infamous for his brutal uppercuts in the '70s, his legendary comeback in the '80s was nearly as impressive, culminating in his display of resilience against Mike Tyson and Muhammad Ali.
