Donald Trump pays emotional tribute to George Foreman after boxing great dies at 76: ‘I knew him well’

President Trump has paid tribute to the great George Foreman, after his death was announced on Friday at the age of 76.

‘George Foreman is dead. What a GREAT FIGHTER!!!’ Trump wrote on Truth Social on Saturday.

‘He had, without question, the heaviest and biggest punch in the history of boxing. With the exception of Ali, when you got hit, you went down. 

‘He was something really Special, but above all, he was a Great Person, with a personality that was bigger than life. 

‘I knew him well, and he will be missed. Warmest condolences to his wonderful family.’

News of his passing came from a statement from his family on social media. They wrote: ‘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.

‘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.’

Foreman was a two-time world heavyweight champion and won Olympic gold in Mexico City in 1968. He is one of the great second acts in sports after reclaiming the heavyweight crown after coming out of retirement. 

He fought in two of the most iconic boxing events of all time, taking on Joe Frazier in ‘The Fight of the Century’ in 1971 and then Muhammad Ali in ‘The Rumble in the Jungle’ in 1974.