Adrienne Calhoun, a name often associated with the legendary boxer George Foreman, played a significant role in his life during one of the most defining chapters of his career. Though she’s not often in the public eye, Adrienne’s contributions as a supportive spouse, mother, and advisor to George during his boxing comeback in the 1990s were crucial. In this article, we explore the life of Adrienne Calhoun, her marriage to George Foreman, and her life after the divorce.

Early Life And Upbringing Of Adrienne Calhoun

Born on September 15, 1953, in New Jersey, Adrienne Calhoun was the eldest of five daughters. She grew up in a modest, urban environment, raised by her single mother. Despite the challenges that came with an underprivileged childhood, Adrienne excelled academically. She attended West Orange High School, where she graduated with honors in 1971, showcasing her determination and intelligence from a young age. This early resilience would play a pivotal role in her life, especially during her time with George Foreman.

Meeting George Foreman: A Story Of Love And Determination

Adrienne first met George Foreman in 1977, during a boxing event that featured the heavyweight champion who had recently suffered a loss to Muhammad Ali. Foreman, already a famous figure in the world of boxing, caught the attention of Adrienne. Their connection was immediate, and despite facing some early challenges in their relationship, they quickly grew closer.

In 1978, the couple welcomed their first son, which deepened their bond. Their relationship culminated in a private wedding on January 21, 1985, a ceremony attended by close friends and family. The couple went on to have eight children together—five sons and three daughters—forming a large and blended family.

Adrienne Calhoun’s Role During George Foreman’s Boxing Comeback

George Foreman’s career was already legendary, but in 1987, he made a shocking return to the boxing ring after a 10-year hiatus. Adrienne stood by his side during this challenging time, fully aware of the risks involved, particularly given George’s age. She remained supportive throughout his rigorous training sessions and demanding fight schedule.

Adrienne took on the role of primary caregiver to their five sons while George focused on his comeback. She not only raised their children but also offered moral support during his significant matches, including his epic victory over Mike Tyson in 1990, when George became the oldest heavyweight champion in boxing history. This achievement remains one of the most remarkable comebacks in sports history, and Adrienne played a vital part in supporting him through it.

Divorce And Financial Settlement

Despite their strong bond and family life, Adrienne and George’s marriage ended in 2002 after more than 16 years together. While the reasons for their divorce were never publicly disclosed, it was speculated that differing spiritual paths—George’s conversion to Christianity and Adrienne’s own spiritual journey—played a role in the split.

The divorce was amicable, with Adrienne receiving a significant settlement. Under California law, she was entitled to a portion of George’s wealth, which amounted to approximately $12.5 million. This sum covered both child and spousal support, ensuring financial stability for her and their eight children. Adrienne was awarded primary custody of their children, as well as several properties in Texas and California, which helped to maintain stability for the family.

Life After The Divorce: Focus On Family

Since her divorce from George Foreman, Adrienne Calhoun has remained out of the public eye, focusing on raising her children. Her life after the divorce has been largely private, with Adrienne staying in California to care for her large family. The divorce allowed her to step away from the spotlight and prioritize her family, remaining a devoted mother to their eight children.

While George pursued various business ventures, including his grill empire, Adrienne dedicated herself to being a strong, nurturing figure for their children. Her quiet life away from the public eye has allowed her to stay out of the limelight, but her influence on George’s life and legacy is undeniable.

Adrienne Calhoun’s Legacy

Though Adrienne Calhoun may not be a household name, her impact on George Foreman’s life, especially during his second boxing career, is significant. As a loving wife, devoted mother, and supportive partner, Adrienne played a crucial role in one of the most remarkable comebacks in sports history. While their marriage did not last, her contributions during his peak years in the 1990s helped shape George’s lasting legacy in boxing.

Today, Adrienne remains a private figure, but her importance in George Foreman’s story is clear. Her early struggles, intelligence, and steady support were integral to George’s achievements both inside and outside the boxing ring.

FAQs About Adrienne Calhoun

1. Who is Adrienne Calhoun?

Adrienne Calhoun is the former wife of legendary boxer George Foreman. She played a significant role in his life, particularly during his boxing comeback in the 1990s, where she supported him both as a wife and a mother of their eight children. Despite their public life together, she has maintained a low profile after their divorce in 2002.

2. How did Adrienne Calhoun meet George Foreman?

Adrienne first met George Foreman in 1977 at a boxing event after Foreman had lost his heavyweight title to Muhammad Ali. Their connection was instant, and they soon began dating. Their relationship became stronger after the birth of their first son in 1978, and they eventually married in 1985.

3. What role did Adrienne Calhoun play in George Foreman’s boxing comeback?

Adrienne was instrumental in supporting George during his return to boxing in 1987 after a 10-year hiatus. She took on the role of raising their five sons while George trained and competed in major boxing matches. Her emotional and moral support was crucial, especially during his historic comeback to win the heavyweight title again in 1990.

4. Why did Adrienne Calhoun and George Foreman divorce?

The exact reasons for their divorce in 2002 were never publicly disclosed. However, it is speculated that differences in their spiritual beliefs—George’s conversion to Christianity and Adrienne’s personal spiritual journey—may have played a role. Despite the divorce, the split was amicable.

5. What was Adrienne Calhoun’s financial settlement after the divorce?

Following their divorce, Adrienne was entitled to around $12.5 million based on George Foreman’s net worth, according to California law. The settlement also included child and spousal support, and she was granted primary custody of their eight children, as well as properties in Texas and California.

6. What has Adrienne Calhoun been doing since the divorce?

After her divorce from George Foreman, Adrienne Calhoun largely stayed out of the public eye. She focused on raising her eight children in California, maintaining a private life away from the media spotlight.

Conclusion

In sum, Adrienne Calhoun’s life is one of resilience, dedication, and quiet strength. While much of her personal journey has been kept out of the public spotlight, her role in George Foreman’s life and career is an essential chapter in the boxing legend’s story. Through her support during George’s comeback and her dedication as a mother, Adrienne’s legacy lives on, even as she remains largely out of the media’s gaze.

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