- 2025 brought heartbreaking losses across global sports
- Football, boxing, cricket, wrestling, motorsport were deeply affected
- Several deaths came from accidents, illness, and sudden medical emergencies
- Fans worldwide united to honour legends who shaped sporting history
Sport, often a source of joy and escape, became a place of shared grief in 2025. The year claimed the lives of athletes and sporting figures whose names are woven into history, remembered not just for victories, but for passion, resilience, and humanity.
George Foreman (76)
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One of boxing’s most feared and respected figures, George Foreman died in 2025 at the age of 76. A two-time heavyweight champion and Olympic gold medallist, Foreman built a legendary career defined by raw power and an unforgettable comeback. His family confirmed his passing in a brief statement, describing him as “a man of faith, discipline and love.”
Diogo Jota (28) and André Silva (25)
Football was rocked in July 2025 when Liverpool and Portugal forward Diogo Jota and his younger brother André Silva died in a fatal car crash in northern Spain. Tributes flooded in from clubs, teammates and fans, many describing Jota as “a fighter on the pitch and a gentle soul off it.”
Ricky “The Hitman” Hatton (46)
British boxing icon Ricky Hatton passed away in September 2025 at just 46. A two-weight world champion, Hatton was loved for his relentless style and honesty about his personal struggles. His death stunned the boxing world, with one tribute reading: “Ricky fought for us all, in and out of the ring.”
Joey Jones (70)
Welsh football legend Joey Jones, a two-time European Cup winner with Liverpool, died in July 2025. Known for his fearless defending and deep loyalty to Wales, Jones remains one of the most respected figures in British football history.
Eddie Jordan (76)
Formula One lost one of its most colourful personalities with the death of Eddie Jordan after a battle with cancer. The founder of Jordan Grand Prix, he helped launch the careers of several F1 stars and later became a beloved broadcaster.
Denis Law (84)
Manchester United and Scotland icon Denis Law died in January 2025. A Ballon d’Or winner and member of United’s famous Holy Trinity, Law’s legacy at Old Trafford remains timeless.
Hulk Hogan (71)
Wrestling legend Hulk Hogan died after suffering a heart attack at his Florida home. One of the most recognisable figures in sports entertainment history, Hogan helped turn wrestling into a global phenomenon.
Robin Smith (62)
Former England cricketer Robin Smith, known as “The Judge,” passed away aged 62. Celebrated for his fearless batting, Smith thrilled fans during the 1990s and left a lasting imprint on English cricket.
Angela Mortimer-Barrett (93)
Wimbledon champion Angela Mortimer-Barrett died aged 93. Her 1961 Wimbledon victory made her a pioneer of British tennis, achieved despite battling serious health challenges.
Laura Dahlmeier (31)
Two-time Olympic biathlon champion Laura Dahlmeier tragically lost her life in a mountaineering accident in Pakistan. The German star had retired early to pursue life beyond sport, inspiring many with her courage.
Fuzzy Zoeller (74)
Golf great Fuzzy Zoeller, winner of the Masters and US Open, died in November 2025. Known for his humour and competitive fire, Zoeller remains a cherished figure in golf history.
Dickie Bird (92)
Cricket umpiring icon Dickie Bird died peacefully at 92. His charisma, fairness and love for the game made him one of cricket’s most admired officials.
