Louis was an exceptional boxer with a ferocious style. The one punch power of Deontay Wilde, combos like Ussyk and grappler skills like George Foreman. His long reign at the top was well deservced.

About Max Schmeling: He was a German, yes, but no fan of the Nazis. He had a Jewish manager (Joe Jacobs) who Schmeling refused to replace over the high Nazi demands (including Joseph Goebbels).

Schmeling nearly paid with his life for not playing propagandist for the Nazis. Schmeling was dropped into Greece as a paratrooper after missing half of his basic training. Schmeling's wife told him directly the Nazis were trying to have him killed without the blood on their own hands, as Schmeling was a German hero.

Not only did Schmeling survive, he thrived after the war. Schmeling became personal friends with Joe Louis, and helped Louis out in the 50s when Louis was down on his luck. Schmeling and Louis remained friends until Louis' death.

I read Schmeling's biography, now I'll use your recommendation and read Louis'! Thanks for the book tip!