HOUSTON (AP) - Family, friends, and admirers are set to honor boxing icon, pastor, and entrepreneur George Foreman during a memorial service in his hometown of Houston. The service will take place at the Wortham Theater Center, a prominent performing arts venue that hosts the city's ballet and opera companies, and is organized by Foreman's family alongside the city of Houston.
Among those expected to speak at the memorial on Monday are George Foreman IV, one of Foreman's five sons, Houston Mayor John Whitmire, and former boxer Michael Moorer, whom Foreman famously defeated in 1994 to become the oldest heavyweight champion at the age of 45. Mayor Whitmire emphasized the significance of celebrating Foreman's legacy, saying, "We’re going to celebrate the life of George Foreman, two-time heavyweight champion of the world and certainly the face of how great Houston is."
George Foreman passed away on March 21, 2023, at the age of 76. While his family has not disclosed the cause of death, they stated on social media that he "peacefully departed ... surrounded by loved ones." Born in Marshall, Texas, Foreman was raised in the Fifth Ward of Houston, a historically Black neighborhood that contributed to his strong sense of community.
Foreman's boxing career began when he won a gold medal at the 1968 Olympics, after which he turned professional in 1969. He earned his place in history by defeating Joe Frazier in 1973 to become the heavyweight champion of the world. However, he lost that title to Muhammad Ali the following year during the iconic "Rumble in the Jungle" fight held in Zaire.
After a brief hiatus from boxing, Foreman experienced a religious awakening, becoming ordained as a minister in 1978. He subsequently established The Church of the Lord Jesus Christ in Houston in 1980, balancing his calling with a successful return to boxing. In 1994, he achieved a remarkable victory over Moorer, winning two heavyweight belts with a stunning knockout that showcased his enduring power at the age of 45.
By the time he retired in 1997, Foreman had compiled an impressive career record of 76 wins and 5 losses. Following his retirement, he transitioned into business and entertainment, gaining fame as the spokesperson for the George Foreman Grill, which has sold over 100 million units and surpassed even his boxing earnings. Additionally, a biographical film about his life was released in 2023, further cementing his legacy.
Foreman was a devoted father of 12 children, five of whom share his name, George Edward Foreman. His life was marked by significant achievements both in and out of the ring, leaving a lasting impact on the boxing world and beyond.
