“The last boxing pillar for an unforgettable era has passed away today,” lamented Turki Alalshikh, the chairman of Saudi Arabia’s General Entertainment Authority. He also spoke of Muhammad Ali, Joe Frazier, and the third man in that legendary trio: George Foreman. With Foreman’s passing at age 76, the world of sports mourns not just a champion, but a figure whose impact crosses the ropes of the boxing ring.

Crossing the boundaries of sports, one of baseball’s greats Barry Bonds has shared a heartfelt message on his Instagram story.

“Rest in Peace 🤍.” And this small but touching tribute with Foreman’s photo from the MLB’s all-time home runs leader is getting us all emotional. Bonds’ respect for George Foreman is evident from this gesture. And why won’t that be!

George Foreman, born on January 10, 1949, wasn’t just a fighter. He was a force of nature. His career spanned decades, with an Olympic gold medal in 1968, a world heavyweight title in a stunning 1973 knockout of Joe Frazier, and the legendary “Rumble in the Jungle,” against Muhammad Ali. And how can we forget the unbelievable comeback that made him the oldest heavyweight champion in history at 45? Yeah, the void is unavoidable!

And it was not just the ring; Foreman was an entrepreneur, too, best known for the George Foreman Grill.

Well, the connection between Bonds and Foreman isn’t something recent. Foreman participated in a video for the baseball star in 2007 when Bonds’ career was closely examined. He joined other sporting giants Carl Lewis, Reggie White, and Hank Aaron in sending words of support. The recognition that Bonds received from Foreman is surely etched in his heart!

And on this day, we cannot hold back on taking a small trip down memory lane for the one and only George Foreman.

A champion remembered: The enduring legacy of George Foreman

Beyond formal tributes, a personal anecdote reveals the genuine regard these two legends held for each other. In 1996, while in Tokyo for a fight against Crawford Grimsley, Foreman met Bonds. Foreman himself described this meeting as the “highlight” of his fight day. Bonds, taking the initiative to greet Big George in the ring, demonstrated a respect that clearly resonated with the boxing champion.

George Foreman’s legacy is not just defined by moments of triumph, but his resilience. His 1974 bout against Muhammad Ali, the “Rumble in the Jungle,” remains one of the iconic fights in boxing history, a titanic showdown that went beyond sport. But perhaps even more impressive was how he came back. His return to the ring at age 38 bewildered all, culminating in his 1994 defeat of Michael Moorer that turned him into the oldest heavyweight champion of all time, a record that still stands.

Naturally, the world of sports is mourning this great loss.

Mike Tyson expressed condolences to his family, recognizing his “contribution to boxing and beyond.” Remembering Foreman, a close friend, Charles Barkley said he was “one of the great boxers ever, but just a gentle man.”

And these messages reflect his universal appeal — a champion in the ring, and more significantly, a champion of character.

George Foreman’s passing marks the end of an era, a passing felt profoundly across the sporting world. Foreman’s legacy, built on both thunderous power and enduring grace, will continue to inspire.

You will stay in our hearts forever, Foreman!