Max Baer was one of the most charismatic heavyweight boxers in boxing history. Known for his tremendous punching power, entertaining personality, and aggressive fighting style, he became the World Heavyweight Champion in 1934 and remains one of the sport’s most memorable figures. Besides boxing, Baer also appeared in Hollywood films and television, making him one of the earliest athletes to achieve crossover fame.
Many boxing fans search for “Max Baer Age” to learn about his birth, career, family, achievements, and legacy. Although Max Baer passed away in 1959, his remarkable contributions to boxing continue to inspire sports enthusiasts around the world.
Max Baer Wiki/Biography
| Category | Details |
| Full Name | Maximilian Adelbert Baer Sr. |
| Popular Name | Max Baer |
| Nickname | The Livermore Larupper, Madcap Maxie |
| Profession | Professional Boxer, Actor |
| Date of Birth | 11 February 1909 |
| Age | Passed away at 50 years (1909–1959) |
| Birthplace | Omaha, Nebraska, United States |
| Nationality | American |
| Religion | Christian (Jewish paternal ancestry) |
| Zodiac Sign | Aquarius |
| Marital Status | Married |
| Wives | Dorothy Dunbar (div.), Mary Ellen Sullivan |
| Famous For | World Heavyweight Champion (1934–1935) |
Max Baer Physical Stats & More
| Attribute | Details |
| Height | 6 feet (183 cm) |
| Weight | 95–100 Kg (Heavyweight) |
| Eye Colour | Brown |
| Hair Colour | Brown |
| Reach | 81 inches (206 cm) |
| Boxing Style | Orthodox |
Max Baer Family Background
| Relation | Details |
| Father | Jacob Baer |
| Mother | Dora Bales Baer |
| Brother | Buddy Baer (Professional Boxer) |
| First Wife | Dorothy Dunbar |
| Second Wife | Mary Ellen Sullivan |
| Son | Max Baer Jr. |
| Daughter | Maudie Marian Baer |
Max Baer was born into a hardworking family. His father worked in the meat business, and Max spent part of his youth helping in the family business, which contributed to his physical strength. His younger brother, Buddy Baer, also became a successful heavyweight boxer, while his son, Max Baer Jr., later gained fame as an actor in the television series The Beverly Hillbillies.
Max Baer Educational Qualification
| Level | Details |
| School | Local School in California |
| Higher Education | Not Pursued |
| Qualification | High School (Left Early) |
| Early Profession | Butcher Shop Worker |
Max Baer Career
Max Baer began his professional boxing career in 1929 and soon established himself as one of the hardest punchers in the heavyweight division.
One of the biggest moments of his career came in 1934, when he defeated Primo Carnera to become the World Heavyweight Champion. The following year, however, he lost the title to James J. Braddock in one of boxing’s greatest upsets.
During his career, Baer fought many legendary opponents, including Max Schmeling, Joe Louis, Tommy Farr, and Tony Galento. Besides boxing, he also appeared in Hollywood films and television programs, becoming one of the first athletes to enjoy success in both sports and entertainment.
His professional record included 68 victories, with 51 wins by knockout, making him one of the most dangerous punchers in heavyweight history. He retired from professional boxing in 1941.
Max Baer Career Milestones
| Year | Milestone | Achievement |
| 1929 | Professional Debut | Started Boxing Career |
| 1933 | Victory Over Max Schmeling | International Recognition |
| 1934 | World Heavyweight Champion | Defeated Primo Carnera |
| 1935 | Title Defense | Fought James J. Braddock |
| 1935 | Fight Against Joe Louis | Historic Heavyweight Bout |
| 1941 | Retirement | Ended Professional Career |
| 1968 | Boxing Hall of Fame | The Ring Hall of Fame |
| 1995 | International Boxing Hall of Fame | Posthumous Honor |
Boxing Legacy
Max Baer is remembered as one of boxing’s greatest knockout artists. His explosive right hand, fearless attitude, and entertaining ring personality made him a fan favorite during the Golden Age of Heavyweight Boxing.
He was later inducted into multiple boxing halls of fame and continues to rank among the greatest heavyweight punchers in boxing history.
Max Baer Relationship / Wife
| Category | Details |
| Marital Status | Married |
| First Wife | Dorothy Dunbar |
| Second Wife | Mary Ellen Sullivan |
| Children | Three |
| Son | Max Baer Jr. |
Max Baer married actress Dorothy Dunbar in 1931, but the marriage ended in divorce two years later. In 1935, he married Mary Ellen Sullivan, and the couple remained together until his death in 1959. They had three children, including actor Max Baer Jr.
Max Baer Net Worth & Income Sources
| Year | Estimated Net Worth | Main Source |
| 1934 | Championship Earnings | Professional Boxing |
| 1938 | Increased Wealth | Boxing & Films |
| 1941 | Career Earnings | Acting & Exhibitions |
| 1959 | Multi-Million Dollar Estate (Historical Estimate) | Boxing & Entertainment |
| Present Value | Difficult to Estimate | Historical Records |
His major income sources included:
- Professional Boxing
- Championship Prize Money
- Film Appearances
- Television Shows
- Public Events
Max Baer Favourite Things
| Category | Favourite |
| Hobby | Acting |
| Sport | Boxing |
| Training Style | Heavy Punching |
| Lifestyle | Outgoing |
| Interest | Entertainment |
Interesting Facts About Max Baer
- Max Baer became World Heavyweight Champion in 1934.
- He defeated Primo Carnera to win the title.
- He was famous for his knockout power.
- His brother Buddy Baer was also a heavyweight boxer.
- His son Max Baer Jr. became a successful actor.
- He appeared in several Hollywood films.
- He retired from boxing in 1941.
- He recorded more than 50 knockout victories.
- He was inducted into the International Boxing Hall of Fame.
- He remains one of boxing’s greatest heavyweight champions.
- His life inspired several books and films about boxing.
FAQs About Max Baer
What was Max Baer’s age when he died?
Max Baer was 50 years old when he passed away in 1959.
When was Max Baer born?
He was born on 11 February 1909.
How tall was Max Baer?
Max Baer was 6 feet (183 cm) tall.
Who was Max Baer’s wife?
He was married first to Dorothy Dunbar and later to Mary Ellen Sullivan.
Who was Max Baer’s son?
His son was Max Baer Jr., the actor famous for The Beverly Hillbillies.
What made Max Baer famous?
He was famous for becoming the World Heavyweight Boxing Champion in 1934 and for his exceptional knockout power.
How many fights did Max Baer win?
He won 68 professional fights, including 51 victories by knockout.
When did Max Baer retire from boxing?
He retired from professional boxing in 1941.
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