George Foreman, the heavyweight champion, was more than just a boxing legend—he was a force of nature. A man whose thunderous punches echoed through generations. His passing at the age of 76 is a shock to the sports world, but his legacy? That will surely never fade.
Among the many tributes pouring in from across the world, NBA great Magic Johnson took a moment to honor the two-time heavyweight champion. His words weren’t just those of a fan—they were of someone who had witnessed Foreman’s greatness firsthand.
Magic Johnson Honors the Heavyweight Legend
Taking to social media, Johnson shared his sorrow over Foreman’s passing, reminiscing about the times he had seen him in action. He had been there—watching from the front row as Foreman sent opponents crashing to the canvas with his devastating power. But to Johnson, Foreman was more than a knockout artist. He was a man of unwavering spirit.
“I was really sad to hear the news that one of my boxing heroes, George Foreman, passing away. I attended so many of George’s championship fights over his career. He was a knockout artist in the ring, and it was a pleasure getting to know him not only as a boxer but as a man,” Magic said.
I was really sad to hear the news that one of my boxing heroes, George Foreman, passing away. I attended so many of George’s championship fights over his career. He was a knockout artist in the ring, and it was a pleasure getting to know him not only as a boxer but as a man.…
— Earvin Magic Johnson (@MagicJohnson) March 22, 2025
 “After leaving the ring, he turned into an amazing businessman — I even bought one of the first George Foreman grills! Cookie and I will be praying for his family during this time.”
Johnson’s tribute spoke volumes. He wasn’t just acknowledging Foreman’s achievements but celebrating his legacy. Foreman won 2 heavyweight championships during his time, as well as an Olympic gold medal for the USA.
Rest in peace, George Foreman. Your legacy lives on, champ. 🕊️ pic.twitter.com/7v5XBSZfTi
— Scottie Pippen (@ScottiePippen) March 22, 2025
And Johnson wasn’t the only NBA legend paying his respects. Chicago Bulls great Scottie Pippen also kept it simple yet powerful:
“Rest in peace, George Foreman. Your legacy lives on, champ. 🕊️”
Foreman’s Family Released a Heartfelt statement
Foreman’s family announced his passing on March 21, sharing the heartbreaking news through his Instagram account. His brother, Roy Foreman, confirmed that the cause of death remains unknown.
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His career was extraordinary, no doubt. In an era when most fighters hang up their gloves for good, he did the unthinkable. After retiring in 1977, he stepped away from boxing for an entire decade. And when he returned, many scoffed. A man in his 40s? In the heavyweight division? No way.
But Foreman didn’t just return—he rewrote history. In 1994, at the age of 45, he shocked the world by knocking out Michael Moorer to reclaim the heavyweight title. From his early wars against Muhammad Ali and Joe Frazier to his improbable second act as champion, Foreman certainly defined what it meant to be a fighter.
Beyond boxing, Foreman became a household name with his George Foreman Grill, a venture that turned him into a multimillionaire. While his fists had made him famous, it was his warm, larger-than-life personality that made him a global icon.
His family’s statement captured the essence of who he was:
“He lived a life marked by unwavering faith, humility, and purpose… A force for good, a man of discipline, conviction, and a protector of his legacy.”
George Foreman was a champion whose career is a living proof that no matter how many times life knocks you down, you can always get back up.