Despite being used as a political tool by the German regime in the
1930s he fought hard against the Nazi party, and managed to save
several Jewish friends from the Nazis during World War II. Over the
years, Schmeling greatly treasured his friendship with his most famous
rival in the ring -
Joe Louis - and quietly gave the down-and-out
American gifts of money in later years. He also paid for Louis' funeral
in 1981.