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Mike Tyson posts emotional tribute to late boxing legend George Foreman

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Michael Gallagher | Last updated Mar 22, 2025 1:06 AM ET

Some knew George Foreman for the double-sided fat-reducing cooking machine that bears his name and earned him an estimated $200 million in endorsement money.

But most remember Foreman as one of the best professional boxers in history with a 76-5 career record (68 wins by knockout) and a Hall of Fame career that included IBA, IBF, NABF, WBA, WBC, WBO, WBU and The Ring heavyweight championship runs.

And though Foreman had plenty of signature wins on his resume including Joe Frazier (twice), Michael Moorer, and Ken Norton, plus he competed in arguably two of the biggest boxing matches in history — “The Fight of the Century” against Joe Frazier in 197 and “The Rumble in the Jungle” against Muhammad Ali in 1974 — many believe Foreman’s white whale was always Mike Tyson.

The two tried to fight one another several times when they were both still active fighters, and they came close to finalizing a bout agreement back in 1995, but the deal never materialized.

And with the news of Foreman’s death at the age of 76 on Friday, Tyson took to social media to pay tribute to one of boxing’s legends and a guy he always dreamed of stepping in the ring with.

“Condolences to George Foreman’s family. His contribution to boxing and beyond will never be forgotten,” Tyson tweeted along with two photos of him and Foreman together.

Condolences to George Foreman’s family. His contribution to boxing and beyond will never be forgotten. pic.twitter.com/Xs5QjMukqr
— Mike Tyson (@MikeTyson) March 22, 2025

Tyson had a decorated boxing career as well with a 50-7 record and stints as WBA, WBC, IBF, IBO, and The Ring heavyweight champion, but those close to Tyson believe a fight against Foreman was one bout he always wanted.

Foreman’s family posted the news of his passing on Instagram.

“With profound sorrow, we announce the passing of our beloved George Edward Foreman Sr. who peacefully departed on March 21, 2025, surrounded by loved ones,” Foreman’s family wrote. “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 respected — a force for good, a man of discipline, conviction, and a protector of his legacy, fighting tirelessly to preserve his good name— for his family. We are grateful for the outpouring of love and prayers, and kindly ask for privacy as we honor the extraordinary life of a man we were blessed to call our own.”

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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