LOS ANGELES, United States (AFP) — Reaction from the boxing world and beyond following the death of former heavyweight champion George Foreman aged 76.

Mike Tyson on X: “His contribution to boxing and beyond will never be forgotten.”

US President Donald Trump on his platform Truth Social: “What a GREAT FIGHTER!!! He had, without question, the heaviest and biggest punch in the history of boxing. With the exception of Ali, when you got hit, you went down. He was something really Special, but above all, he was a Great Person, with a personality that was bigger than life. I knew him well, and he will be missed.”

Legendary boxing promoter Bob Arum: “One of the biggest punchers and personalities the sport has ever seen.”

Basketball legend Earvin “Magic” Johnson on X: “He was a knockout artist in the ring and it was a pleasure getting to know him not only as a boxer but as a man.”

Boxing promoter Don King on Instagram: “George was an inspiration, my brother, a man who was innovative and imaginative. He demonstrated what you could do with yourself even though you might be born poor, under privileged, downtrodden and denied. He proved what you can do when think ‘yes I can’ when the world tells you ‘no you can’t’.”

British former heavyweight Tony Bellew on X: “RIP to one of the greatest human beings to ever put on boxing gloves. This man was truly amazing! There is no doubt imo he’s the greatest puncher boxing has ever seen. Rest easy king the world is a lesser place without you.”

Renowned trainer Freddie Roach on X: “George was a true legend of the sport of boxing and a sports icon. You will always be remembered, Big George Foreman.”