Following a swift ascent to professional boxing in 1969 and securing 37 wins by 1972, his career hit a high note when he knocked out reigning champion Joe Frazier in 1973 to claim the heavyweight title. However, his encounter with Muhammad Ali in the 1974 Rumble in the Jungle marked a turning point; Ali's strategic "rope-a-dope" tactic led to Foreman's first defeat, which he called "the most embarrassing moment" of his life.
In 1977, disillusioned with boxing, Foreman embraced a spiritual path, becoming an ordained minister and establishing the George Foreman Youth and Community Center. Despite stepping away from boxing, Foreman's life took another surprising turn when he made a return in 1987 to help fund his ministry. Ultimately, he became the oldest heavyweight champion at 45, a title earned in 1994, before retiring in 1997 with an impressive record of 76 wins and only five losses.
Aside from his boxing accolades, Foreman was a family man with 12 children – five of whom share his name – and continued his ministry work until his passing, engaging with his community four times a week.
In 1977, disillusioned with boxing, Foreman embraced a spiritual path, becoming an ordained minister and establishing the George Foreman Youth and Community Center. Despite stepping away from boxing, Foreman's life took another surprising turn when he made a return in 1987 to help fund his ministry. Ultimately, he became the oldest heavyweight champion at 45, a title earned in 1994, before retiring in 1997 with an impressive record of 76 wins and only five losses.
Aside from his boxing accolades, Foreman was a family man with 12 children – five of whom share his name – and continued his ministry work until his passing, engaging with his community four times a week.
