Anthony Joshua leads tributes to George Foreman after heavyweight legend’s death at 76 – as Eddie Hearn honours ‘the great’ boxing icon

Anthony Joshua led the tributes for boxing legend George Foreman after his death at the age of 76.

The family of the former two-time world heavyweight champion confirmed the tragic news on his Instagram page on Saturday morning.

Their statement read: ‘Our hearts are broken. With profound sorrow, we announced the passing of our beloved George Edward Foreman St. who peacefully departed on March 21, 2025 surrounded by loved ones.

‘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.’

Foreman was inducted into the World Boxing Hall of Fame due to his highly successful achievements in the discipline, including a world heavyweight title on two occasions and an Olympic gold in 1968.

Immediately after the news broke, tributes began to flood with Joshua – who was praised by the American icon several times – leading the way.

Reposting Foreman’s family’s tragic post, the former unified WBO, IBF and WBA heavyweight champion wrote: ‘RIP Champ’.

Meanwhile, British boxing giant and promoter Eddie Hearn’s tribute read: ‘Rest in peace the great George Foreman,’ accompanied by their picture alongside Michael Buffer. 

Myke Tyson, who publicly expressed immense admiration and respect for George Foreman – by previously calling him the ‘heaviest puncher’ – has also shared a message.

‘Condolences to George Foreman’s family. His contribution to boxing and beyond will never be forgotten,’ he said. 

Hall of Fame boxing promoter Frank Warren added: ‘Boxing has lost one of its true legends, George Foreman.

‘A gentleman who I had the honour of promoting his only UK fight in 1990. I have fond memories of introducing George to two of my sons, Francis and George, in this photo.

‘I send my condolences to his family and friends. Rest in peace George.’

Former British professional boxer Johnny Nelson – with 59 bouts in his career – appeared on Sky Sports to pay tribute to the legendary heavyweight.

‘George Foreman is part on boxing history, no matter what you think of him,’ he said.

‘This young man, he’d been boxing for two years and then he won Olympic gold medal. This is how good he was. He was strong as an ox.

‘People tought this guy’s just big, he’s a big lump, they didn’t respect him because he didn’t have the pedigree, but still he was so strong naturally.’

President of the WBC Mauricio Sulaiman, with whom Foreman had a close and respectful relationship, posted some heartbreaking words outlining the former champion’s role in boxing and influence he had on people.

‘Receiving sad news is a moment that sticks to your memory for life,’ he wrote on X (formerly Twitter). ‘The great George Foreman has passed away.

Legendary boxing champion, life changing preacher, Husband, father, grand and great grandfather and the best friend you could have. His memory is now eternal , may Big George rest in peace.’

He later added several pictures with a green WBC belt which Mauricio’s father prepared years before he presented it to Foreman.

He accompanied the post with: ‘I was honored to present the green belt which my father Jose Sulaiman had ready and was in a drawer for more than 30 years’

More to follow…