‘His contribution will never be forgotten’: Two icons from sports (76) and entertainment (52) pass away
- Replies 6
The world has lost two familiar faces—one a towering figure in the boxing ring, the other a memorable presence on screen.
Both left behind legacies that transcended their fields, touching the lives of fans across generations.
Their passing has sparked an outpouring of tributes, honouring their contributions and the impact they had on those who knew them.
Boxing has lost one of its greatest champions, with the passing of legendary heavyweight George Foreman at the age of 76.
Foreman’s family confirmed his death in a statement, saying: ‘With profound sorrow, we announce the passing of our beloved George Edward Foreman Sr, who peacefully departed on 21 March 2025, surrounded by loved ones.’
The statement described him as ‘a humanitarian, an Olympian, and two-time heavyweight champion of the world’, adding that he was ‘deeply respected—a force for good, a man of discipline, conviction and a protector of his legacy, fighting tirelessly to preserve his good name—for his family.’
Foreman’s loved ones expressed gratitude for the support, saying: ‘We are grateful for the outpouring of love and prayers, and kindly ask for privacy as we honour the extraordinary life of a man we were blessed to call our own.’
Born in 1949, Foreman rose to prominence as an amateur boxer, winning a gold medal in the heavyweight division at the 1968 Olympics in Mexico City.
His professional career quickly took off, and by 1973, he had claimed the heavyweight championship after a dominant victory over Joe Frazier.
One of his most famous fights took place in 1974—the iconic Rumble in the Jungle against Muhammad Ali in Zaire.
Foreman suffered his first career defeat in that fight, with Ali securing a knockout victory in the eighth round.
After losing his title, Foreman continued fighting until his initial retirement in 1977, after which he became an ordained Christian minister.
A decade later, he stunned the boxing world by announcing his comeback, proving that age was just a number.
In 1994, at 45 years old, he defeated Michael Moorer with a knockout to reclaim the heavyweight championship, becoming the oldest boxer ever to win the title.
The victory came 20 years after he had lost the belt to Ali, cementing his legacy as one of the sport’s greatest fighters.
Foreman retired for good in 1997, closing his career with 76 wins and only five losses.
Beyond the ring, he became a successful businessman, most famously known for the George Foreman Grill, which launched in 1994.
His friendly persona in television advertisements made him a household name outside of boxing.
He also hosted the 1996 TV program Bad Dads, addressing issues of fatherhood and family.
Foreman married four times and had 10 biological children, along with two adopted children.
He famously named all five of his sons George Edward, explaining: ‘If one of us goes up, then we all go up together, and if one goes down, we all go down together!’
His passing marked the end of an era, as Foreman, Ali, and Frazier—three of the greatest heavyweights in history—were now all gone.
Ali died in 2016 at the age of 74 after battling Parkinson’s syndrome, while Frazier passed away in 2011 at 67.
Tributes poured in from across the world, honouring Foreman’s impact on boxing and beyond.
‘Condolences to George Foreman’s family. His contribution to boxing and beyond will never be forgotten,’ Mike Tyson said.
NBA legend Scottie Pippen wrote: ‘Rest in peace, George Foreman. Your legacy lives on, champ.’
Ring Magazine paid tribute, saying: ‘The Ring is deeply saddened to learn of the passing of boxing legend George Foreman. Foreman is considered one of the greatest heavyweights of all time, and will be remembered as an icon of the sport forever. Our deepest sympathies are with George’s friends and family at this time.’
Veteran boxing reporter Dan Rafael reflected on the loss, saying: ‘Sadly, Ali, Frazier and now Foreman are all gone. They were the three greatest heavyweights of the greatest heavyweight era in history and each participated in iconic bouts against each other.’
To truly appreciate George Foreman’s incredible journey—from Olympic gold medallist to two-time heavyweight champion and successful entrepreneur—watch this tribute that highlights his most memorable moments.
Check out the video below to celebrate his enduring legacy.
Source: Youtube/ABC News
Beyond the world of boxing, the entertainment industry also faced a heartbreaking loss.
J.P. Schwieterman, the actor best known for playing the antagonist Kurt Bozwell in Good Burger, passed away on 28 February after a short battle with cancer.
He was 52 years old.
His brother, Chad Schwieterman, confirmed his passing, writing on social media: ‘It is with a heavy heart that I share the passing of my brother, Jan (JP) Schwieterman. He recently found out he had an aggressive form of stage 4 cancer.’
Schwieterman’s family and friends described his death as a ‘shock’.
‘Please keep our family in your thoughts and prayers as we navigate this difficult time. Rest in peace, brother. We love you and miss you,’ Chad added.
Born in Bluffton, Indiana, Schwieterman became a ‘proud’ Eagle Scout before setting his sights on acting.
After finishing high school, he moved to Los Angeles and landed early guest roles in McKenna, ER, and Forever.
His breakthrough came in 1997 when he was cast in Good Burger as Kurt Bozwell, the scheming owner of a rival fast-food chain.
The film, starring Saturday Night Live’s Kenan Thompson and Kel Mitchell, also featured appearances from Sinbad and Shaquille O’Neal.
Following his success in Good Burger, Schwieterman made guest appearances in Felicity and other television projects.
He stepped away from acting in 2000, taking a seven-year hiatus before returning for his final role in the 2008 indie film Along the Way.
He did not return for Good Burger 2, which was released in 2023.
Schwieterman had a passion for travel and visited many countries, including a recent trip to Thailand.
According to his obituary: ‘He was an artist of photography and painting. He studied martial arts and loved playing Dungeons and Dragons.’
His passing was deeply felt by those close to him.
‘Thank you, everyone, for your support,’ Chad wrote.
‘We miss JP deeply and appreciate your thoughts and prayers.’
Schwieterman is survived by his parents, Clara and LeeRoy, his brother, two sisters, nieces, nephews, and cousins.
His memorial service was held on 4 March.
Schwieterman’s passing has left fans reminiscing about his memorable role and impact on screen.
Watch the video for more on his life and legacy.
Source: Youtube/E! News
Both Foreman and Schwieterman left lasting legacies in their respective fields, inspiring fans across generations.
May they rest in peace.
Both left behind legacies that transcended their fields, touching the lives of fans across generations.
Their passing has sparked an outpouring of tributes, honouring their contributions and the impact they had on those who knew them.
Boxing has lost one of its greatest champions, with the passing of legendary heavyweight George Foreman at the age of 76.
Foreman’s family confirmed his death in a statement, saying: ‘With profound sorrow, we announce the passing of our beloved George Edward Foreman Sr, who peacefully departed on 21 March 2025, surrounded by loved ones.’
The statement described him as ‘a humanitarian, an Olympian, and two-time heavyweight champion of the world’, adding that he was ‘deeply respected—a force for good, a man of discipline, conviction and a protector of his legacy, fighting tirelessly to preserve his good name—for his family.’
Boxing legend George Foreman dies at 76. Image source: Michael Tran/AFP
Foreman’s loved ones expressed gratitude for the support, saying: ‘We are grateful for the outpouring of love and prayers, and kindly ask for privacy as we honour the extraordinary life of a man we were blessed to call our own.’
Born in 1949, Foreman rose to prominence as an amateur boxer, winning a gold medal in the heavyweight division at the 1968 Olympics in Mexico City.
His professional career quickly took off, and by 1973, he had claimed the heavyweight championship after a dominant victory over Joe Frazier.
One of his most famous fights took place in 1974—the iconic Rumble in the Jungle against Muhammad Ali in Zaire.
Foreman suffered his first career defeat in that fight, with Ali securing a knockout victory in the eighth round.
After losing his title, Foreman continued fighting until his initial retirement in 1977, after which he became an ordained Christian minister.
A decade later, he stunned the boxing world by announcing his comeback, proving that age was just a number.
In 1994, at 45 years old, he defeated Michael Moorer with a knockout to reclaim the heavyweight championship, becoming the oldest boxer ever to win the title.
The victory came 20 years after he had lost the belt to Ali, cementing his legacy as one of the sport’s greatest fighters.
Foreman retired for good in 1997, closing his career with 76 wins and only five losses.
Beyond the ring, he became a successful businessman, most famously known for the George Foreman Grill, which launched in 1994.
His friendly persona in television advertisements made him a household name outside of boxing.
He also hosted the 1996 TV program Bad Dads, addressing issues of fatherhood and family.
Foreman married four times and had 10 biological children, along with two adopted children.
He famously named all five of his sons George Edward, explaining: ‘If one of us goes up, then we all go up together, and if one goes down, we all go down together!’
His passing marked the end of an era, as Foreman, Ali, and Frazier—three of the greatest heavyweights in history—were now all gone.
Ali died in 2016 at the age of 74 after battling Parkinson’s syndrome, while Frazier passed away in 2011 at 67.
Tributes poured in from across the world, honouring Foreman’s impact on boxing and beyond.
‘Condolences to George Foreman’s family. His contribution to boxing and beyond will never be forgotten,’ Mike Tyson said.
NBA legend Scottie Pippen wrote: ‘Rest in peace, George Foreman. Your legacy lives on, champ.’
Ring Magazine paid tribute, saying: ‘The Ring is deeply saddened to learn of the passing of boxing legend George Foreman. Foreman is considered one of the greatest heavyweights of all time, and will be remembered as an icon of the sport forever. Our deepest sympathies are with George’s friends and family at this time.’
Veteran boxing reporter Dan Rafael reflected on the loss, saying: ‘Sadly, Ali, Frazier and now Foreman are all gone. They were the three greatest heavyweights of the greatest heavyweight era in history and each participated in iconic bouts against each other.’
To truly appreciate George Foreman’s incredible journey—from Olympic gold medallist to two-time heavyweight champion and successful entrepreneur—watch this tribute that highlights his most memorable moments.
Check out the video below to celebrate his enduring legacy.
Source: Youtube/ABC News
Beyond the world of boxing, the entertainment industry also faced a heartbreaking loss.
J.P. Schwieterman, the actor best known for playing the antagonist Kurt Bozwell in Good Burger, passed away on 28 February after a short battle with cancer.
He was 52 years old.
Good Burger star J.P. Schwieterman dies at 52. Image source: Nickelodeon/Toedtmann & Grosse Funeral Home
His brother, Chad Schwieterman, confirmed his passing, writing on social media: ‘It is with a heavy heart that I share the passing of my brother, Jan (JP) Schwieterman. He recently found out he had an aggressive form of stage 4 cancer.’
Schwieterman’s family and friends described his death as a ‘shock’.
‘Please keep our family in your thoughts and prayers as we navigate this difficult time. Rest in peace, brother. We love you and miss you,’ Chad added.
Born in Bluffton, Indiana, Schwieterman became a ‘proud’ Eagle Scout before setting his sights on acting.
After finishing high school, he moved to Los Angeles and landed early guest roles in McKenna, ER, and Forever.
His breakthrough came in 1997 when he was cast in Good Burger as Kurt Bozwell, the scheming owner of a rival fast-food chain.
The film, starring Saturday Night Live’s Kenan Thompson and Kel Mitchell, also featured appearances from Sinbad and Shaquille O’Neal.
Following his success in Good Burger, Schwieterman made guest appearances in Felicity and other television projects.
He stepped away from acting in 2000, taking a seven-year hiatus before returning for his final role in the 2008 indie film Along the Way.
He did not return for Good Burger 2, which was released in 2023.
Schwieterman had a passion for travel and visited many countries, including a recent trip to Thailand.
According to his obituary: ‘He was an artist of photography and painting. He studied martial arts and loved playing Dungeons and Dragons.’
His passing was deeply felt by those close to him.
‘Thank you, everyone, for your support,’ Chad wrote.
‘We miss JP deeply and appreciate your thoughts and prayers.’
Schwieterman is survived by his parents, Clara and LeeRoy, his brother, two sisters, nieces, nephews, and cousins.
His memorial service was held on 4 March.
Schwieterman’s passing has left fans reminiscing about his memorable role and impact on screen.
Watch the video for more on his life and legacy.
Source: Youtube/E! News
Both Foreman and Schwieterman left lasting legacies in their respective fields, inspiring fans across generations.
May they rest in peace.
.png){kind=icon}
and Vale Jan (J.P.) 
