George Foreman was a relatively new world champion when he agreed to meet Muhammad Ali in a title match in 1974, in what is now the Congo. The unknown boxing promoter Don King made a deal with Mobutu Sese Seko, the leader of then Zaire, to hold the match in Kinshasa.
The match, which came to be called "The Rumble in the Jungle", is one of the most famous events in sports history.
Counted out against Ali
But it ended badly for Foreman. Despite having a significant advantage at the beginning, the world champion lost to the underdog Ali, who tired him out by persistently withstanding Foreman's body punches.
In the eighth round, Foreman was counted out after Ali changed pace, went on the attack, and knocked him out.
Sold grills
George Foreman, who had previously won Olympic gold in 1968, hung up his boxing gloves in 1977, but made a grand comeback when he approached 40 years of age.
In 1994, he reclaimed the heavyweight title at the age of 45 and became the oldest boxer ever to win a title when he surprisingly defeated Michael Moorer by knockout. It had been 21 years since he first became world champion in 1973.
George Foreman was a colorful figure even outside the boxing ring. He ended his career in 1997 and became a successful businessman, selling grills. Advertisements where "the champ" marketed his products became a recurring sight on American TV, and Foreman became a folk hero.
Foreman also appeared on "Masked Singer", had his own comedy series on TV for a while, and had twelve children, including five sons – all named George Edward Foreman.
Born in Marshall, Texas. Won gold in heavyweight at the Olympic Games in 1968 in Mexico City.
Professional matches: 81, 76 wins, 5 losses.
Became world champion in 1973 after defeating Joe Frazier. Lost the title in 1974 after losing to Muhammad Ali. Became world champion again in 1994 and held the title until 1997.
