Boxing legend Foreman dies at 76

KABUL (Pajhwok): Boxing legend George Foreman, known as Big George in the ring, has died at 76, the BBC reported on Saturday, citing his family.

In his illustrious career, Foreman won Olympic gold in 1968 and clinched the world heavyweight title twice.

In 1974, he was dethroned by Muhammad Ali in what is called the famous Rumble in the Jungle bout.

But Foreman’s professional boxing career involved 76 wins including 68 knockouts — nearly double that of Ali.

In a post on Instagram on Friday night, his family said: “Our hearts are broken. 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.”

The statement added: “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.”

Born in Texas on January 10, 1949, Foreman was raised along with six siblings by a single mother in the segregated American South.

At 19, he won the heavyweight gold medal at the 1968 Olympics in Mexico City, winning 37 consecutive fights. He lost only five bouts.

He outpunched reigning champion Joe Frazier in Kingston in 1973 knocking him down six times in the first two rounds before hanging his gloves in 1977 and became an ordained minister.

In 1994, aged 45, Foreman emerged as the oldest ever heavyweight champion by knocking out Michael Moorer.

Married five times, the legendary boxer has a dozen children, including five sons who are all named George.

PAN Monitor/mud