Adrienne Calhoun, the former wife of legendary boxer George Foreman, was more than just a supporting figure behind the scenes during his epic career. While much of the world focused on Foreman’s historic achievements in the ring, Calhoun played a crucial role in his personal life, supporting him through both his victories and his challenges. From her modest upbringing to her years as a mother and business partner, Adrienne Calhoun was a key player in George Foreman’s life and legacy.
Early Life And Upbringing
Adrienne Calhoun was born on September 15, 1953, in New Jersey. She was the eldest of five daughters, growing up in a single-parent household. Despite the challenges of being raised in an underprivileged environment, Adrienne demonstrated resilience from an early age. Her mother, who raised the children on her own, instilled in Adrienne the importance of hard work and perseverance.
However, these challenges only served to strengthen her character. Adrienne excelled academically and went on to graduate with honors from West Orange High School in 1971.
Relationship And Marriage to George Foreman
Adrienne’s life took a dramatic turn in early 1977 when she met George Foreman. At the time, Foreman was one of the most prominent figures in the world of boxing. Adrienne first encountered George at a boxing match, and the two felt an instant connection. It was love at first sight.
Their relationship, however, wasn’t without its challenges. Despite facing struggles early on, the couple’s bond grew stronger, especially after the birth of their first son in 1978. This new chapter in their lives helped solidify their relationship, and the couple soon became a tight-knit family.
On January 21, 1985, after several years of dating, Adrienne and George Foreman tied the knot in a private ceremony surrounded by close friends and family. Over the course of their marriage, they welcomed a total of five sons and three daughters.
Adrienne’s Role During George’s Boxing Comeback
In 1987, after a 10-year hiatus from boxing, George Foreman shocked the sports world by announcing his return to the ring. Despite these doubts, George was determined to make a comeback and reclaim his heavyweight title.
During this pivotal time in George’s career, Adrienne played an instrumental role in supporting him. While she had concerns about the risks involved in his return to the sport, she trusted her husband’s judgment. She knew that when George put his mind to something, he gave it his all.
“I figured he knew what he was doing,” Adrienne later reflected. “I know George, and when he puts his mind to something, he goes all out to achieve it.”
She took on the primary responsibility of caring for their children, including George Jr., George III (also known as Monk), George IV (Big Wheel), George V (Red), and George VI (Little Joey). Adrienne was fully committed to her family, balancing the demands of motherhood with supporting George’s career.
Her presence at many of George’s boxing matches provided much-needed emotional support. She was there for his legendary victory over Michael Moorer in 1994, which saw George regain the heavyweight title in a stunning upset.
Quiet Divorce And Settlement
After more than 16 years of marriage, Adrienne and George Foreman’s relationship came to an end. The couple quietly divorced in 2002, with the reasons for their separation kept private. However, it was speculated that their differing spiritual journeys played a role in their decision to part ways.
Though the details surrounding their divorce remain private, it is known that Adrienne was entitled to a substantial financial settlement. Under California law, she was entitled to around $12.5 million based on George’s net worth, in addition to ongoing child and spousal support. The divorce settlement also included primary physical custody of their children, ensuring that Adrienne had stability for her large family.
The settlement also allowed her to maintain homes and assets in both Texas and California. These assets provided continuity for the children while George pursued new business ventures and entered into a second marriage. Despite their divorce, Adrienne remained focused on raising their eight children as a single mother.
Life After George Foreman
Following her divorce from George Foreman, Adrienne Calhoun chose to lead a more private life. She largely stepped out of the public spotlight, focusing her energy on raising her children and ensuring they received a stable upbringing. Adrienne’s role as a mother became her primary focus, and she did so with dedication and commitment.
Though she was no longer married to George, Adrienne remained supportive of her children’s well-being. She maintained her residence in California, where she continued to raise her family away from the media’s gaze.
As of 2028, nearly a decade has passed since her divorce from George. Adrienne’s life remains relatively quiet, and she appears content with her life outside the public eye. While George Foreman’s name continues to make headlines due to his business ventures and second marriage, Adrienne’s presence has faded from the media’s focus. However, her impact on George’s life and legacy remains undeniable.
Conclusion
Adrienne Calhoun’s story is one of resilience, devotion, and quiet strength. Though she may not have sought the spotlight, her role in George Foreman’s life was immeasurable.
Her upbringing in a modest household shaped her practical and determined approach to life, which perfectly complemented George’s larger-than-life persona. While their marriage may have ended quietly, Adrienne’s influence on George’s legacy is undeniable.
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