George Foreman, the iconic two-time heavyweight boxing champion and Olympic gold medalist, passed away on March 21, 2025, at the age of 76. Foreman’s extraordinary life story encompasses remarkable success in both sports and business, leaving behind a net worth estimated at $300 million.
A Boxing Titan with a Historic Career
Foreman’s professional boxing record stands as one of the most impressive in history. Across his career, he tallied 76 wins with just five losses, including a memorable bout with Muhammad Ali in the legendary “Rumble in the Jungle.” In 1994, at the age of 45, Foreman made history by becoming the oldest heavyweight champion in boxing, cementing his place among the sport’s greatest athletes. He officially retired from boxing at the age of 48 in 1997.
Foreman was inducted into both the International Boxing Hall of Fame and the World Boxing Hall of Fame, honoring his contribution to the sport. His resilience, power, and charisma in the ring earned him widespread admiration and respect.
From Boxer to Business Mogul
While Foreman’s athletic achievements were exceptional, it was his entrepreneurial ventures that elevated his financial status. In 1994, Foreman partnered with Salton, Inc. to launch the George Foreman Grill, a household kitchen appliance that revolutionized home cooking.
Initially, Foreman received 40 percent of the profits from each grill sold, at one point earning as much as $4.5 million per month. In 1999, Salton paid Foreman a staggering $138 million for the rights to use his name permanently on the product. The grill has since sold over 100 million units worldwide, reportedly bringing Foreman’s total earnings from the venture to over $200 million—far surpassing his boxing career earnings.
Personal Life and Family Legacy
Foreman’s financial success enabled him to support a large and loving family. He was married five times, most recently to Mary Joan, whom he wed in 1985 and remained with until his passing. In total, Foreman leaves behind 12 children—seven daughters and five sons.
In a unique family tradition, all five of his sons were named George Edward Foreman: George Jr., George III (nicknamed “Monk”), George IV (“Big Wheel”), George V (“Red”), and George VI (“Little Joey”). In an interview with ‘Good Morning Britain’ in April 2023, Foreman explained, “It just keeps coming up. I don’t want the name to die.”
Foreman also has 15 grandchildren, and his influence extended through generations of his family. Beyond his role as a father and grandfather, Foreman was a mentor, humanitarian, and spiritual leader.
Faith and Ministry
Following his initial retirement from boxing in 1977, Foreman experienced a religious awakening and became a Christian minister in his home state of Texas. His faith remained a cornerstone of his life, as did his humanitarian efforts.
Foreman’s commitment to community service and youth mentorship was widely recognized, and he often spoke about using his platform to uplift others.
Remembering George Foreman
Tributes have poured in from across the boxing world and beyond, celebrating Foreman’s life, character, and contributions to both sports and society. His family released a heartfelt statement following his passing:
“Our hearts are broken. With profound sorrow, we announce the passing of our beloved George Edward Foreman Sr. who peacefully departed on March 21, 2025, surrounded by loved ones. 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. 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.”
Legacy Beyond Wealth
While Foreman’s $300 million net worth is a testament to his business acumen and athletic prowess, his true legacy lies in the values he espoused and the lives he touched. As both a world champion and a family patriarch, George Foreman embodied perseverance, faith, and generosity.
Foreman’s life story remains an enduring example of how personal reinvention and determination can create a lasting impact. From humble beginnings to global recognition, Foreman’s contributions will continue to inspire future generations in both sports and entrepreneurship.
