Mike Tyson leads tributes to George Foreman as | Boxing News

Mike Tyson has paid his respects to fellow boxing icon George Foreman with a heartfelt message to his household. Foreman has died on the age of 76, his family members have confirmed, after a legendary boxing profession which spanned two spells as world heavyweight champion.

Foreman’s illustrious listing of achievements embrace successful Olympic gold in 1968, his first world heavyweight title in 1973 and his second in 1994 – the latter of which made him the oldest heavyweight champion in historical past, aged 45. The Texas-born slugger was recognized for his exceptional punching energy and clinched 68 of his 76 skilled wins by manner of knockout. Upon retiring in 1997, after his final professional bout on the age of 48, Foreman solely had 5 defeats on his document.

Tyson was one of the primary huge names to pay tribute, posting two photos of himself with Foreman and writing on X: “Condolences to George Foreman’s family. His contribution to boxing and beyond will never be forgotten.”

There have been rumours that Tyson and Foreman would combat within the early Nineteen Nineties, however these plans by no means got here to fruition. ‘Big George’ has lots of different enormous names on his CV, together with Joe Frazier, who he defeated through second-round TKO to grow to be world heavyweight champion for the primary time and lengthen his document to 38-0.

That was up to 40 by the time Muhammad Ali gained their well-known Rumble within the Jungle combat the next yr and inflicted Foreman’s first defeat.

Foreman would go on to beat Frazier for a second time in 1976, and he shared the ring with different legends like Ken Norton, Evander Holyfield, Tommy Morrison and Michael Moorer earlier than hanging up his gloves.

The American was one of the best-known fighters of his period and is one of the best heavyweights of all time, however his personal fortune skyrocketed in retirement, having hooked up his identify to a best-selling moveable grill.

Foreman’s household stated in an Instagram post on Friday evening: “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.

“A humanitarian, an Olympian, and two time heavyweight champion of the world, He was deeply revered – a pressure for good, a man of self-discipline, conviction, and a protector of his legacy, combating tirelessly to protect his good identify – for his household.”

Chairman of the Saudi General Entertainment Authority Turki Alalshikh also paid tribute to Foreman, writing on X: “Sad information for me and the boxing world… The final boxing pillar for an unforgettable period has handed away immediately… May his soul relaxation in peace, Big George Foreman!”

Frank Warren posted his own touching message, which learn: “Boxing has misplaced one of its true legends, George Foreman. A gentleman who I had the honour of selling his solely UK combat in 1990. I’ve fond recollections of introducing George to two of my sons, Francis and George, on this photograph. I ship my condolences to his household and mates. Rest in peace George.”