UFC heavyweight champion Jon Jones was one of those who paid their respects to two-time heavyweight champion George Foreman, who recently passed away. In his now-removed Instagram story, he posted a powerful and emotional video of Foreman's spiritual path.

Foreman, who's also known as the "Big George," left a lasting legacy both in and out of the ring. Aside from becoming a big name in the boxing world, he later became a successful businessman and a well-respected preacher.

Jon Jones Pays Tribute to George Foreman with Heartfelt Video

Jon Jones Shares Emotional Tribute to George Foreman After Boxing Jon Jones Shares Emotional Tribute to George Foreman After Boxing
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Jon Jones, who has ruled the octagon with authority and is a committed Christian, decided to pay tribute to Foreman by pointing out the boxer's religious awakening. As spotted by Bloody Elbow, rather than offering his own comments, Jones shared a moving video in which Foreman shared the time he had opted for faith over fear.

In the video, Foreman shared a near-death experience that resulted in his acceptance of Christianity.

"I realized I was going to die," Foreman said. "I said 'look, I'm still George Foreman, I can still give money to charity and for cancer'. The voice answered me back 'I don't want your money, I want you.' I remember 'boom', tears poured, I didn't get scared."

Foreman continued to tell how he felt a presence from God that pulled him from nothingness, so he devoted his life to teaching the word of faith.

This life-changing experience inspired Foreman to become an ordained minister, a career he pursued with great zeal after retiring from boxing.

Foreman's Legacy as a Fighter and a Man of Faith

George Foreman's career is legendary. His devastating knockout strength and classic confrontations, including his legendary encounter with Muhammad Ali in the "Rumble in the Jungle," made him a legend among heavyweight greats. But it was his reinvention of himself upon retirement that elevated him to iconic status.

Foreman's path from world champion to preacher touched many hearts. He came back to boxing in his 40s, becoming the oldest heavyweight world champion in history by beating Michael Moorer in 1994 at 45. His perseverance and faith gave him a platform to become an inspiration outside of the sporting sphere.

George Foreman's Death Shocks Boxing World

The death of Foreman was announced by his family, who issued a tender statement conveying their grief.

"Our hearts are broken," the statement read. "With profound sorrow, we announce the passing of our beloved George Edward Foreman Sr, who peacefully departed on March 21, 2025, surrounded by loved ones.


The statement continued to focus on Foreman's unshakable faith, commitment to his family, and enduring legacy as a humanitarian and champion.

Tributes Flow in from the Sports Universe

According to Secondsout, tributes streamed in from around the world as sportsmen, celebrities, and supporters paid tribute to Foreman's memory. Boxing greats such as Mike Tyson and UFC president Dana White were among the first to pay their respects to the deceased champion.

Top Rank CEO Bob Rum and a well-known boxing trainer Teddy Atlas also paid tribute to the late legend.