These fighters are almost mirror images of themselves. Tunney 6'0", 76 " reach. Schmeling 6'1", 76" reach. Both about 190 lbs. Tunney won his big Championship fights, whereas, Schmeling won the title "on the floor" and lost it by decision, though Schmeling should be given credit for his victory over then thought-of "Invincible" Joe Louis. Taking Tunney by decision, due to his boxing ability & movement, and probably doesn't have the young Joe Louis flaw of dropping his left after a jab ( to be countered by Schmeling's right hand).
Schmeling's spectacular victory over Louis in 1936 was the result of a brilliant strategy based around an intensive study of the subtle flaw in Joe's jabbing style and an anticipated overconfidence on the part of Louis. Max did his homework well, whipping himself into top condition which he knew he would have to have in order to execute the strategy. Joe's greatest weakness played well into Max's greatest strength, his potent right cross. The 'sometink' that Max saw in Joe's jabbing would not be something he saw with Tunney. He would have to find another way to land his deadly right, for which Tunney would be on the lookout. Gene always made a careful study of his opponents, so he would not be underestimating Schmeling. He was always in top condition as well. I envision Tunney jabbing and moving, scoring with straight rights en route to victory. Schmeling was tough and could take some heavy punishment, as shown in his fight with Max Baer before the fight was stopped, so I believe the fight would be a good one that goes the limit. Tunney UD.
