Max Schmeling Autograph

Profession:
(1905-2005) German boxer, heavyweight champion of the world between 1930 and 1932.

Year of Birth: 1905

Max Schmeling was a German heavyweight boxer who was born on September 28, 1905, in Klein Luckow, Germany. He began his boxing career in 1924 and quickly rose to prominence in the sport. With his powerful punches and tactical skills, Schmeling became known as one of the most formidable boxers of his time.

Schmeling gained international recognition when he won the heavyweight championship title in 1930 after defeating Jack Sharkey. He successfully defended his title against various challengers and became a symbol of German strength and pride in the years leading up to World War II.

However, Schmeling's fame was not limited to his boxing career. He is perhaps best known for his two bouts against American boxer Joe Louis. In their first fight in 1936, Schmeling emerged victorious in a shocking upset. Their rematch in 1938, however, resulted in a swift defeat for Schmeling, but it did not diminish his status as a respected boxer.

Beyond his boxing achievements, Schmeling's personal life was marked by acts of compassion and bravery. During World War II, he served as a paratrooper in the German army and was wounded during the Battle of Crete. Despite being drafted into the Nazi Party, Schmeling risked his own safety by hiding two Jewish boys during the war.

After retiring from boxing in 1948, Schmeling worked as a businessman and philanthropist. He dedicated his time and resources to charitable causes and became a beloved figure in Germany. Max Schmeling passed away on February 2, 2005, leaving behind a legacy as one of the greatest boxers of his era and a symbol of sportsmanship and humanity.