How Old Was George Foreman When he Last Fought?

By Arslan Saleem July 11, 2024 02:55

Photo by Paras Griffin/Getty Images/Sony Pictures

Hall of Famer George Foreman is to this present day still a massive boxing icon and one of the fight world's all-time most sought-after legends seen in his glittering career across multiple decades. His last match is a memorable part of the history of boxing, considering his age and work. This article seeks to be a fully detailed exposition of the boxing career of George Foreman, how he came to hang up his gloves for good following his last pro fight and takes an in-depth look at why the two-time heavyweight champion managed such longevity.

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Boxing Career of George Foreman

George Foreman's professional boxing career was a very bright start. A professional since 1969, in his early days, he built a name for being as great of a combatant in the ring as ever. His impressive skills and poise were seen in most of the tenders he performed for many years to establish major fights. Foreman claimed many wins by knockout throughout his career, establishing himself as a top contender in the heavyweight division.

Biggest fights and their achievements

A second-round knockout of unbeaten Joe Frazier in 1973 gave Foreman the World Heavyweight title during a career highlighted by several memorable bouts. He would defend the title twice before losing it in 1974 during Muhammad Ali's famous "Rumble in the Jungle." Still, Foreman's fighting spirit and talent did not give up, as he kept competing with the best fighters in his weight class throughout this period and making a name for himself.

Details of Foreman's Final Professional Fight

In George Foreman's last professional fight as a challenger, he was fighting Shannon Briggs in 1997 for the right to face WBC champion Lennox Lewis. Yet Foreman, despite his grey hair and advancing years, combined resolute effort with precision in the squared circle. It was a competitive about, as Foreman spent most of the night working with power punches. But Briggs was instead rewarded with the controversial majority decision. It was the end of their boxing rivalry and marked Foreman's final time entering a fight when he last fought at 48.

The Whole Context of Foreman's Retirement

After losing to Briggs, George, this time seeming truly serious, announced his 'final' retirement. His career may have been turbulent, but it was also one of remarkable resolve. However, Foreman, who is also associated with boxing despite leaving the sport, had shades of a return as early as 1999 when he was planning for at least one fight against Larry Holmes. Although negotiations for the fight faltered, Foreman's true love of boxing brought him to what came to be a highly regarded career as an analyst for fights broadcast on HBO.

Tale of the Last Tape

Foreman's career ended in his 81st and last professional fight with a tale worthy of his mark on boxing. His skill set is of elite caliber, and his competitiveness, all the way to later years in his career, shows how much he wanted it. From the journey he has taken and accomplished, Foreman is an inspiration, and his work in the sport has made him a true boxing icon. As a legend in ring and spirit, George Foreman still echoes throughout the depths of professional boxing.