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The boxing world is mourning the loss of George Foreman, a two-time heavyweight champion whose impact stretched beyond the ring.
Tributes from legendary figures in boxing highlight Foreman’s greatness as both a fighter – following his thrilling clash with Muhammad Ali and his accolade of oldest heavyweight champion, and as a man, a preacher, and a friend.
Hall of Fame promoter Don King, who worked with Big George Foreman throughout his career, said: “I love the man […] he was my brother and was truly a wonderful man. George Foreman was innovative and imaginative. He ranks with the immortalized group of greats.”
“He came from a class of people that was poor, underprivileged, and denied. But he said, ‘Yes, I can,’ and in spite of that, he became the world champion.”
King also spoke about Foreman’s role in “The Rumble in the Jungle,” his historic 1974 fight against Muhammad Ali. “The Rumble in the Jungle was the greatest event that’s immortalized in history. It was history in the making.”
The event saw Ali defeat Foreman via eighth-round KO.
King continued: “While George has left us here on earth, his spirit lives on.”
Fond Memories from the Boxing World
Longtime HBO Boxing commentator Jim Lampley, who worked closely with Foreman, expressed his sorrow: “Tonight I am flooded with tears. I loved him. He was a great fighter and a far, far greater human being.”
Lampley put it poetically when he said: “He’s with Ali now, and they are at peace with each other.”
Top Rank founder Bob Arum, who promoted some of Foreman’s later fights, shared his grief too: “We’ve lost a family member and are absolutely devastated.”
Mike Tyson also chimed in: “His contribution to boxing and beyond will never be forgotten.”
WBC President Mauricio Sulaiman honoured Foreman with his own tribute: “Legendary boxing champion, life-changing preacher, husband, father, grand- and great-grandfather, and the best friend you could have. His memory is now eternal, may Big George rest in peace.”
Foreman’s impact will be felt for generations to come, and the boxing world will greatly miss the heavyweight legend.
