Just watched Louis/Schemling I and I'm curious as to classics thoughts on just how complete a fighter Max was. What did he have, and what did he lack?
Max had everything the era offered.. Durability, courage, fitness, cleverness, compassion, self-belief, willing managers, and above all else... a fantastic right hand. I dont think it would be fair to suggest that Schmeling was a timeless fighter, with the ability to fit in to 50s, 60s, 70s.... Although, he was totally accomadated for the period. I believe, any possible faults Max exposed were purely related to the style of the game during the time.... flat footedness, chin too high, hands too low, ribs exposed, back too straight..... Despite all I write, the fact remains, Schmeling authored his own page in boxing history by sending Louis to bed. Louis has re-written the page, but , without the initial text, the story may have been less dramatic.
i remember Bert Sugar saying that Schemling used the shoulder roll. Anyone know if this is this true?
I for one am drawing a blank... perhaps footwork? I only say because I have not seen a great deal movement in the fights I've watched so far-though I certainly could be wrong. Anyone?
too bad the second Louis fight was so brief. I say that strictly from a boxing viewpoint - not a cultural, sociological, historical viewpoint. I wonder how it would have evolved if Schmeling had survived two rounds and found his legs, such as they were. After all the hype and build-up, I wished there had been more boxing.
Well, Max had almost everything. Only thing is that the level of these qualities were very good but not great. My two cents.
Well, they were great for the boxing for his time and would still be very good for every era after it.