George Foreman delivers knockout blow to Houston Rockets mascot

Former heavyweight champion George Foreman shoots a free throw before the game between the Houston Rockets and the Milwaukee Bucks. Photo / Getty

George Foreman delivered a few knockout blows during his incredible boxing career (68, in fact), but the former world heavyweight champion added one more to his tally.

Foreman was a guest of honour at the Toyota Center in Houston, Texas, and was sitting court-side to watch NBA franchise Houston Rockets take on the Milwaukee Bucks in a regular season game.

But in an organised stunt, he was approached by their mascot Clutch the Bear, who was wearing a boxing robe as well as comically sized gloves. Foreman responded to the challenge with a powerful left hook, which knocked Clutch out cold.

Come for Big George, you best not miss. pic.twitter.com/T9SifdyV8c

— ESPN (@espn) December 17, 2017

The mascot was then helped to his feet and lead away, allowing the game to go on as usual, where Houston continued their record-equalling start to an NBA season.

James Harden scored 31 points, Chris Paul had 25 and the Houston Rockets beat the Milwaukee Bucks 115-111 for a 13th straight victory.

The winning streak is the Rockets' longest streak since a franchise-best 22 straight in 2007-08.

The Rockets ground through frustrations, 15 turnovers and a below-average shooting night. Still, Harden scored 20 points or more for the 29th straight game, matching Houston's franchise record set by Moses Malone.

Milwaukee and Houston traded blows in the first half, with the Rockets leading by three at the end of the first quarter. They were tied at 55 at the half. The Rockets haven't trailed at the half since November 25 in a 117-102 win over the Knicks.

The Rockets took an 84-79 lead into the fourth quarter.

At 24-4, the Rockets are tied for their best 28-game start in franchise history, matching the 1993-94 season when they won their first championship.