The heavyweight boxing legend dies at the age of 76, says the family

The heavyweight box legend George Foreman died at the age of 76, according to his family.

Forman, known as the Big George in the Ring, has been racing for decades, beginning in the 1960s, winning gold from the Olympics and numerous titles, including the world heavyweight title twice.

He lost his first title to Mohammed Ali in their famous rumble in the match in the jungle in 1974. But his professional career in boxing boasts an astonishing 76 common victories and 68 knockouts, almost doubled Ali. Forman has lost five matches through his career.

He won his first heavyweight world championship in 1973, after which he did it again in 1994 when he was 45 years old. He retired from sports in 1997.

His family said in an Instagram post on Friday night: “Our hearts are broken.

“A pious preacher, a devoted husband, a loving father and proud great and great -grandfather, he lived a life marked by unwavering faith, humility and purpose.”

The statement added: “Humanitarian, Olympian and two -time heavyweight champion in the world, he was deeply respected – the power for good, a man of discipline, conviction and defender of his heritage, fighting tirelessly to keep his good name – for his family,” says the family, describing a formatist in postagram post.

Forman was born in Marshall, Texas, on January 10, 1949 and raised with six brothers and sisters from a single mother in the segregated American south.

He dropped out of school and turned to the street robberies before he eventually found his way out in the boxing ring.

Forman won the gold medal in the 1968 Olympics in Mexico City, 19 years old, before turning the professional and winning 37 consecutive games.

He defeated an early unbeaten managing champion Joe Fraser in Kingston, Jamaica, in 1973 he knocked him down six times in the first two rounds.

Forman also saw success outside the ring, becoming a preacher and a successful entrepreneur.

He became Pitchman advertising for his George Foreman Grill, which millions have purchased since he hit the market in 1994, thanks to his phrase, “Lean Mean Marring Machine”.

Forman has a dozen children. Five of his sons are named George.

He explained to his website that he had baptized them on it, so “they will always have something in common.”

“I tell them,” If any of us rises, then we all get together, “he explained. “And if one goes down, we all go down together!”