Boxing Legend George Foreman Passes Away at 76: What was the cause of death?

George Foreman, the iconic two-time heavyweight boxing champion, has died at the age of 76, his family announced via a statement on his official Instagram account. While the cause of death was not immediately disclosed, the family confirmed his peaceful passing on March 21, 2025, surrounded by his family.

Throughout his remarkable career, Foreman participated in 81 professional fights, achieving an impressive record of 76 wins and only 5 losses, with 68 of his victories coming by way of knockout. His contributions to the sport were recognized with inductions into both the World Boxing Hall of Fame and the International Boxing Hall of Fame.

In their statement, Foreman’s family expressed their profound sorrow, describing him as a “devout preacher, a devoted husband, a loving father, and a proud grand and great grandfather.” They further highlighted his life as one “marked by unwavering faith, humility, and purpose,” emphasizing his roles as a humanitarian, Olympian, and two-time heavyweight champion. He was deeply respected as a “force for good, a man of discipline, conviction, and a protector of his legacy,” who tirelessly worked to maintain his good reputation for his family. The family also expressed gratitude for the outpouring of love and prayers and requested privacy as they honor his extraordinary life.

Foreman is survived by his wife, Mary Joan Martelly, whom he married in 1985. Their nearly four-decade-long marriage made her his longest partner; he was previously married to Adrienne Calhoun, Cynthia Lewis, Sharon Goodson, and Andrea Skeete. The boxing legend was a father to 12 children, notably naming all five of his sons George Edward Foreman, often using nicknames or numbers to differentiate them: George Jr., George III (“Monk”), George IV (“Big Wheel”), George V (“Red”), and George VI (“Joe”). His daughters are Natalia, Leola, Freeda (who passed away in 2019), Michi, Georgetta, Isabella, and Courtney.

Beyond his boxing achievements, Foreman amassed a considerable fortune. According to IMDB in 2023, his net worth exceeded $300 million. While his boxing career significantly contributed to this, his enduring relevance and wealth were further cemented by the immensely popular George Foreman Grill. Since its introduction in 1994, this kitchen appliance has reportedly sold over 100 million units in its first 25 years, becoming a global phenomenon.