CAMELOT FANTASIES

is max baer the most feared boxer in history?


The one-time "killer" and future inspiration to Jews during WWII, Baer is possibly the most feared puncher ever to box professionally.

 Baer's record stands at 72 wins, 53 by knockout, and 12 losses.  Baer fought Frankie Campbell in 1930; Campbell died in the ring after two blows to the head from Baer.  It was later revealed that the punches knocked Campbell's brain completely loose from the connective tissue holding it in place in his head.  Baer was profoundly affected by this event.

 The movie Cinderella Man, director Ron Howard, in one of the most despicable cases of artistic license ever, makes Baer look sadistic and his remorse for Campbell is not shown.  In all fairness, the media at the time in the 30's played up Baer's image as a killer, and the film does show Baer accepting defeat graciously, smiling and clapping at Braddock's victory. It can also be argued that the depiction of Baer in the film was in keeping with his depiction in the press at the time, and the image of a destructive, savage boxer was often used by promoters to create interest in Baer's fights.



 And, while the film's Max Baer in the movie never expresses remorse for the death of Campbell, neither does he actually boast about it.  The real life Max Baer helped put Frankie Campbell's kids through college.  Later, Baer became an actor.  He was heavyweight champion from June 14th, 1934 until June 13th, 1935 (when he lost to Braddock).  He died at the age of 50.