The meeting between former heavyweight champion George Foreman and journeyman boxer Everett Martin, better known as “Bigfoot,” was a clash of two very different worlds. Foreman, at age 40, was on a mission to regain his heavyweight title, while Martin, an incredibly durable fighter, was content with testing his opponents, even if he knew he would never become a world champion. Despite both fighters hailing from Houston, Texas, their paths diverged significantly after their shared faith and hometown.
In July of 1989, Foreman and Martin faced off in Tucson, Arizona, in a match that went largely unnoticed at the time but has since become a pivotal moment in Foreman’s comeback story. Foreman, with an 18-0 record in his comeback, had to dig deep to defeat Martin, who was known for his resilience and ability to make his opponents work hard for a victory. The fight, while not reaching classic status, was deemed watchable by fans who witnessed Foreman’s tactical approach against Martin’s unwavering determination.
The disparity in physical appearance between Foreman and Martin was evident, with Foreman weighing in at 258 pounds and Martin at 228 pounds. Despite Martin’s seemingly better physical condition, Foreman’s technical skills and powerful left jab proved to be the deciding factor in the fight. Foreman’s calm and composed demeanor, coupled with his calculated approach, helped him secure a wide decision victory over Martin, who displayed sportsmanship in defeat by hoisting Foreman aloft in a sign of respect.
Foreman, known for his humility and respect for his opponents, regarded Martin as one of the toughest fighters he ever faced in the ring. Martin’s ability to withstand punishment and his impressive record of only being stopped 12 times in 60 professional fights attest to his toughness and resilience. Despite Martin’s passing in 2022 at the age of 58, his legacy as a legendary journeyman lives on, with fighters like Foreman acknowledging his contribution to the sport.
The showdown between George Foreman and Bigfoot may not have made headlines at the time, but in retrospect, it stands as a significant moment in Foreman’s comeback narrative. The contrast between the legendary heavyweight champion and the gritty journeyman created a compelling matchup that showcased the grit and determination of both fighters. As Foreman continued his remarkable comeback, Martin’s role in shaping his journey cannot be understated, highlighting the invaluable lessons learned from unlikely rivals in the world of boxing.