George Foreman becomes oldest heavyweight champion at age 45
- George Foreman rose from a troubled upbringing marked by delinquency to become a heavyweight boxing champion.
- His notable achievements included winning an Olympic gold medal in 1968 and defeating Joe Frazier and Michael Moorer.
- Foreman's transformation from a feared boxer to a beloved figure culminated in his record as the oldest heavyweight champion at 45.
George Foreman, born in Marshall, Texas, in 1949, faced significant challenges during his early life, including a troubled childhood and legal troubles, which led him to become a juvenile delinquent. His life took a turning point when he dropped out of high school at 16 and joined the local job corps, where he discovered his passion for boxing while watching an Ali fight. This moment set him on a path to stardom, leading to his professional debut and a string of knockout victories, including a monumental win against Joe Frazier, undefeated at the time. However, his career faced trials, including a significant loss to Muhammad Ali during the iconic 'Rumble in the Jungle'. After a period away from boxing, Foreman made a remarkable comeback, defeating Michael Moorer in 1994, at 45 years old, to reclaim the heavyweight title, making him the oldest champion in history. His post-boxing career included business ventures and personal life, notably naming all five of his sons George, hoping to create a bond among them, solidifying his legacy not just as a fighter, but a cultural icon. Foreman passed away recently, leaving behind a legacy that continues to impact fans and athletes alike.