Max Schmeling

Full Name: Maximilian Adolph Otto Siegfried Schmeling
Profession: Boxer

Nationality:

Biography: Max Schmeling was a German heavyweight boxer who achieved significant success during the 1920s and 1930s. He is best known for his two iconic fights with American boxer Joe Louis, which became symbols of the political tensions between Germany and the United States during that time.

Schmeling first gained international attention in 1930 when he won the world heavyweight title against Jack Sharkey. He became the first German to win the title and held it until 1932, defending it once before losing to Sharkey in a rematch.

The first fight between Schmeling and Joe Louis took place in 1936, with Schmeling emerging as the winner in a stunning upset. This victory made him a national hero in Germany and was used as propaganda by the Nazi regime, despite Schmeling's reluctance to be associated with their ideology.

In their highly anticipated rematch in 1938, Joe Louis defeated Schmeling in the first round, dealing a symbolic blow to the image of German invincibility promoted by the Nazis. This rivalry between Schmeling and Louis took on political overtones and came to be seen as emblematic of the era.

After retiring from boxing, Max Schmeling served in the German military during World War II and later pursued a successful career as a businessman. He also became friends with Joe Louis, and the two remained close until Louis' death in 1981.

Born: September 28, 1905
Birthplace: Klein Luckow, Germany

Generation: Greatest Generation
Chinese Zodiac: Snake
Star Sign: Libra

Died: February 2, 2005 (aged 99)