Heavyweight boxing legend George Foreman dies aged 76

George Foreman is a boxing legend (Getty Images/ Bettmann)

Foreman finally retired for good at the age of 48 in 1997 with a record of 68 knockouts out of 76 wins and just five losses – inducted into the International Boxing Hall of Fame alongside the World Boxing Hall of Fame.

He’s considered one of the greatest boxers of all time and the ‘outpouring of love’ for Foreman continues.

His family resolved in their statement: “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.”

And it’s not taken long for fans of the boxer to pay their respects online.

Foreman’s family announced his passing in a post to Instagram (Instagram/ @biggeorgeforeman)

A Twitter user wrote: “From knocking out opponents in the ring to winning hearts outside of it, George Foreman was a true icon. His legacy will live on through his achievements, wisdom, and of course, those famous grills.”

“A true legend. George Foreman wasn’t just a 2 time heavyweight champ, he was the oldest to ever win the title at age 45, and his grill sold over 100 million units. He punched hard and lived even bigger,” another added.

A third commented: “My heartfelt condolences to his family members, friends and fans. He was a a legend, two-time World Heavyweight Champion, an Olympic gold medalist as well as an entrepreneur and preacher. Rest In Peace, Big Champ.”