45 years, 299 days. That’s how old George Foreman was when he challenged for a world title against an almost two-decade younger, Michael Moorer in 1994. But stars aligned in favor of the veteran challenger. He left the arena with a win and became the oldest heavyweight champion in history—a feat that is now part of the annals of boxing history. It has exactly been 30 years since that incredible moment, as the fans went down memory lane and heaped praise on the former heavyweight champion for his monumental effort.

But the story starts with Foreman forfeiting boxing after a near-death experience after his fight with Jimmy Young in March 1977. After staying away from the boxing ring for a decade, he made a return at the age of 38 and then went on to surmount a challenge for the world championship. It all culminated in a third title shot, after his comeback, against Moorer, then 26, and brought his absolute best in the ring. In the process, he mounted one of the most spectacular comebacks boxing had ever seen.

George Foreman: 30 years to the iconic fight

Foreman, 75, turned to his Instagram handle and shared a photo of him on his knees in a praying position in the boxing corner after knocking out Moorer. In addition, he poured his heart out in the caption. The caption read, “30 years ago today! I started my day believing “All things are possible if we only believe.” The power of a prayer; great or small. ( Now a prayer over my Lunch) “that I only have 1, helping.” George Foreman”

Jarrell Miller turned to the comment section as he lauded the former heavyweight champion for his effort and exploits after making a comeback to boxing. He wrote, “Motivation.” The fans also flocked in big numbers and revealed how they felt about the fight, which taught them nothing was impossible.

Mike Tyson and Tyson Fury dragged in

In the comments section of Foreman’s post, a fan heaped praise on ‘Big George’ for his comeback and becoming a world champion. However, they also drew a parallel with Joe Joyce, who has a slow fighting pace, similar to Foreman’s. They said, “Great come back but that makes joe Joyce look rapid … hell of a comeback after a long break though.” The British boxer is a stand-and-exchange fighter and won all his fights, except one with a knockout. While Foreman also relied on power, he also had the boxing IQ to set up huge punches and break down his opponents with combination punching.

A user commended the two-time world champion for his sheer force and strength. They noted, “Foreman was an absolute juggernaut. No heavyweight had that combo of strength and power like George.” Notably, George ended his career with a record of 76-5, with 68 of those wins coming through knockouts.

Someone drew comparisons with modern heavyweights Tyson Fury and Anthony Joshua. They commented, “Let me put this into perspective for you, look how washed up tyson fury and AJ look now and theyre only 35.” Fury, 36, and Joshua, 35, both have suffered disheartening defeats in their last fights and might be well on course to curtail their career in a couple of years. Meanwhile, Foreman retired at the age of 48.

Lastly, a comment lamented Mike Tyson‘s hard luck. The comment read, “Mike Tyson hard luck all through.” Tyson, 58, had to spend three years of his prime behind bars, which affected his career and eventually his longevity in the boxing ring. He had to start from scratch but couldn’t replicate the success of his earlier career.

What do you make of this moment of George Foreman becoming a world champion at the age of 45? Let us know in the comments below.