Thirty-five years ago, in a forgotten boxing match that took place in Tucson, Arizona, two fighters from Houston, Texas, faced off in the ring. George Foreman, the former heavyweight king on a quest to reclaim his title, met Everett Martin, known as “Bigfoot,” the unofficial king of journeymen. Both men, deeply religious, came from the same city but had vastly different goals. Foreman, at the age of 40, was determined to prove himself once again, while Martin, a durable underdog, fought for pride rather than championship glory.
Despite Foreman’s resurgence with 18 consecutive wins by knockout, he had to dig deep to overcome the challenge presented by Martin. The fight was not a classic, but it was certainly watchable. Foreman’s heavyweight frame of 258 pounds faced off against Martin’s lighter but more agile 228-pound build. Martin, in defiance of his underdog status, pushed Foreman to the limit with his resilience and determination. Throughout the match, Foreman’s powerful left jab proved to be the deciding factor, earning him a hard-fought victory over the tough Bigfoot.
Throughout Martin’s boxing career, he demonstrated unwavering toughness and an indomitable spirit. Despite being stopped only 12 times in 60 professional fights, Martin faced some of the biggest names in the sport, including Larry Holmes, Michael Moorer, and Dwight Muhammad Qawi. His ability to endure punishment and continue fighting until the final bell earned him the respect of his opponents, including George Foreman. Even in defeat, Martin’s resilience and fighting spirit left a lasting impression on those who shared the ring with him.
While the battle between Foreman and Martin may have been overshadowed by other high-profile matchups at the time, it remains a pivotal moment in Foreman’s comeback story. Despite doubts about his ability to go the distance, Foreman proved his critics wrong by outlasting the tough and determined Bigfoot. The fight with Martin served as a crucial test for Foreman, preparing him for future challenges against elite competition in the heavyweight division.
A Legacy Remembered
Although Everett Martin may not have achieved the same level of fame and success as George Foreman, his legacy as a journeyman fighter lives on. Martin’s willingness to face anyone and his resilience in the ring made him a formidable opponent for even the most skilled fighters in the sport. His passing in 2022 marked the end of an era, but his story serves as a reminder of the unsung heroes who contribute to the rich tapestry of boxing history.
The forgotten battle between George Foreman and Everett Martin may not have captured the attention of the boxing world at the time, but its significance in shaping Foreman’s comeback narrative cannot be understated. The clash between the former champion and the journeyman warrior exemplified the heart and spirit of the sport, highlighting the courage and determination of those who step into the ring. As we reflect on this historic matchup, we remember the legacy of two men who left an indelible mark on the world of boxing.