George Foreman, the former heavyweight champion, made a hilarious appearance on The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson. The transcript from the talk show reveals Foreman’s charismatic personality and his plans to return to the boxing ring after a 10-year retirement.
As the interview begins, Johnny Carson welcomes Foreman, who had previously appeared on the show in 1976. Foreman’s larger-than-life presence immediately captivates the audience as he talks about his boxing career.
Carson highlights the rumors that circulated when Foreman retired from boxing, suggesting that he did so out of fear. In his typical witty manner, Foreman humorously recounts a story about his bald head, claiming that he started shaving it to dispel any notions of fear.
Carson presses Foreman on his decision to return to the ring, seemingly amazed by his courageous attitude. But Foreman assures him that it is the easiest thing he has ever been asked to do. In fact, Foreman boldly declares that he can defeat even the likes of Mike Tyson or Buster Douglas.
The conversation takes a humorous turn when the topic of shaving is brought up. Foreman admits to shaving not only his head but also other body parts, which causes Carson and the audience to burst into laughter. Foreman’s contagious enthusiasm is palpable as he shares his shaving escapades, including a close call with his eyebrows.
Carson then questions Foreman about his weight, wondering if it poses any challenges for a boxer. Foreman reveals that he was initially 315 pounds when he decided to get back into boxing. With his signature confidence, he dismisses Carson’s concerns about his weight, stating that he likes being big and intimidating his opponents.
As the interview progresses, Foreman reminisces about his toughest opponent, Joe Frazier, whom he initially dreaded facing in the ring. But with his steely gaze, Foreman managed to psych out Frazier, ultimately winning the match.
Carson inquires about Foreman’s upcoming fight against Allison Rodriguez. Foreman playfully responds that he hopes Rodriguez is not a good fighter, causing laughter to fill the studio. Despite Rodriguez’s decent record and ranking, Foreman confidently dismisses his skills, ready to take on any opponent in his comeback journey.
With his charismatic presence and contagious laughter, George Foreman‘s appearance on The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson in 1990 became a memorable moment in talk show history. Foreman’s larger-than-life personality and hilarious anecdotes kept the audience entertained and left them eagerly anticipating his return to the boxing ring.
Originally aired on May 16, 1990
