German Boxing Legend Max Schmeling Dies at 99
German Boxing Legend Max Schmeling Dies at 99 (NYT)
German heavyweight boxer Max Schmeling, whose bouts against American Joe Louis set off a propaganda war between the Nazi regime and the United States on the eve of World War II, has died at age 99. The former world champion, one of Germany’s biggest sports idols, died Wednesday at his home in Hollenstedt, according to his foundation in Hamburg. No cause of death was given. Schmeling was buried Friday in a ceremony attended by a small circle of friends, the foundation said. It did not say where the funeral took place.
Schmeling’s extraordinary career will be remembered for his two fights with Louis, which produced a lasting bond between the two boxers despite the politically charged atmosphere surrounding the bouts.
Who knew he was still alive?
Nine of your fellow players knew. 😉
Wow–a whole point!
I actually knew. As did a guy I had lunch with yesterday. We talked about him. And then first thing this morning heard the news. Eerie.