Who was George Foreman married to? Family explored as heavyweight boxing legend passes away at 76

Boxer and entrepreneur George Foreman died on March 21, 2025, at 76. At the time of writing this story, the cause of his death was unknown. George Foreman was married to Mary Joan Martelly, with whom he tied the knot in 1985. Foreman was married multiple times, including to Adrienne Calhoun, Cynthia Lewis, Sharon Goodson, and Andrea Skeete.

George Foreman had six children with Adrienne Calhoun, and their marriage ended in 1974. He had 12 children and named five of his sons George Edward Foreman, distinguishing them with nicknames or numbers, such as George Jr. and George III. Speaking to Graham Bensinger in 2023, the boxer was asked about his decision to name his kids the way he did. He said:

“I met my biological dad I was already been heavyweight champ of the world and a grown man and I didn’t want my kids to be in that position. I wanted them to have something in common and I figured why not give them a name George Edward Foreman.”

He continued:

“They are all called the same and I tell them if one goes up, we all go up, if one gets in trouble we are all in trouble. It’s a family name and you don’t have to change your name and never anyone have to change the name but change their ways and I tell them, ‘Either live up to the name or change it.”

George Foreman shared that his wife wanted him to stop boxing, and he responded by saying he would retire the moment he forgot the name of one of his sons.

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George Foreman’s family's statement explored and more about his children

On March 21, 2025, his family shared a statement on his Instagram describing him as a loving person. They highlighted his strong faith, humility, and values in life. The family requested privacy as they honored his remarkable life. The statement read:

“Our hearts are broken. 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.”

It noted:

“A humanitarian, an Olympian, and two time heavyweight champion of the world, 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.”

Born on January 10, 1949, in Marshall, Texas, George Foreman was raised by Nancy Ree Foreman and J.D. Foreman. He later discovered that his biological father was Leroy Moorehead.

George Foreman’s children have pursued a variety of careers. George Jr. built a career in business and marketing, while also venturing into television production. George III, known as “Monk,” became a professional boxer with an undefeated record and later founded Craft Boxing Club.

George IV transitioned from boxing to film production and opened a high-end training gym. George V faced legal troubles in 2014 but has strong family support. The youngest, George VI, was born in 1999 and has largely stayed out of the spotlight.

Among Foreman’s daughters, Freeda had a brief boxing career before becoming a promoter but died in 2019. Natalia is a professional singer, professor, and doctoral candidate, while her sister Leola is a comedian and YouTuber.

Michi is an advocate for education and a performer. Georgetta has built a career in television production, working on courtroom shows, and is a mother of two. Isabella and Courtney were adopted by George Foreman in 2009 and 2012, respectively. Isabella shares her experiences on her blog, while Courtney prefers a private life.