Only the likes of Mike Tyson and Deontay Wilder could be comparable to George Foreman in terms of heavyweight stopping power.
As one of the greatest heavyweights of all time, Foreman has wins over Joe Frazier, Ken Norton, and Ron Lyle. Best known for becoming heavyweight boxing’s oldest ever champion, Foreman helped to change the sport forever.
From his ‘Rumble in the Jungle’ with Muhammad Ali to returning from a career break to make history, Foreman has a unique and memorable career.
On his way to his historic knockout over Michael Moorer, Foreman went on a fantastic winning streak. In this run, Foreman was able to put away a worthy heavyweight competitor.
- READ MORE: George Foreman’s comeback streak included win in bizarre fight with former Evander Holyfield foe
George Foreman knocked out Adilson Rodrigues in 1990
After Foreman defeated the likes of Gerry Cooney, Dwight Muhammad Qawi, and Bert Cooper, he was riding a 21-fight win streak following his return to the ring.
In June 1990, Foreman had a 66-2 record, and was 41 years of age. Aiming to once again become a world champion, Foreman squared off with Adilson Rodrigues.
With a record of 36-3, Adilson was a contender in the heavyweight division. His only loss within four years of meeting Foreman was against Evander Holyfield.
The Brazilian was seen as a step up in competition for Foreman, who was aiming to earn a world title fight. The pair met in Caesars Palace in Las Vegas at an event that included Mike Tyson returning after his controversial defeat to James ‘Buster’ Douglas.
Despite his age, Foreman proved again that he still possessed lethal power in his hands. After a close first round, Rodrigues was put out of the bout.
Towards the end of the second round, a stalking Foreman would land a sweeping left hook. Immediately sent to the canvas, the Brazilian was left wide-eyed and wobbly, unable to beat the referee’s count.
The fight showed that Foreman was still among the best in the division, despite his age and hiatus from boxing.
George Foreman would get world title opportunity in 1991 against Evander Holyfield
Foreman followed his win over Rodrigues with another two knockouts, extending his winning streak to 24. Thanks to his good form in his boxing comeback, he would be paired with Holyfield.
Holyfield held the WBA, WBC, and IBF World Heavyweight titles, as Foreman looked to once again reign supreme in the division.
Despite the two men being power punchers, the fight would go the distance. Winning via unanimous decision, Holyfield’s record improved to 26-0, as he defended his titles.
It was Holyfield’s first defense of his belts. As for Foreman, he would have to wait until 1994 to claim a world title.