Max Baer was a famous American boxer known as “Madcap Maxie.” His real name was Maximilian Adelbert Baer. He was born on February 11, 1909, in Omaha, Nebraska. He died on November 21, 1959, at age 50.
He stood 6 feet 2.5 inches tall and weighed about 210 pounds. He was the world heavyweight champion from 1934 to 1935. His professional record was 68 wins and 13 losses. His estimated net worth at death was around $200,000.
He married Mary Ellen Sullivan in 1935. He had 3 children. He was inducted into the Boxing Hall of Fame in 1995. His legacy as a boxing icon is eternal.
Max Baer Wiki/Bio

| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name / Real Name | Maximilian Adelbert Baer |
| Stage Name | Madcap Maxie |
| Date of Birth | February 11, 1909 |
| Age in 2026 | Deceased (would be 117) |
| Birthplace | Omaha, Nebraska, USA |
| Nationality | American |
| Profession | Professional Boxer, Actor, Referee |
| Category | Boxer |
| Education | Not widely publicized |
| Partner / Spouse | Mary Ellen Sullivan (m. 1935) |
| Children | 3 (Max Jr., James, Maudie) |
| Career Start | 1929 |
| Company / Label / Team | Independent |
| Major Works | World Heavyweight Champion (1934–1935) |
| Achievements | IBHOF Inductee (1995) |
| Net Worth | $200,000 |
| Primary Income Source | Boxing purses, acting |
| Social Media Presence | None (died 1959) |
Max Baer Real Name
Max Baer was born as Maximilian Adelbert Baer. He was known globally by his nickname “Madcap Maxie.” He was born on February 11, 1909, in Omaha, Nebraska . His real name is documented in boxing records.
Baer has no stage name in the traditional sense. His nickname became his fighting identity. He is also known as “The Livermore Larupper.” This nickname reflected his hometown and his charismatic personality.
Baer‘s full name honors his family heritage. His father was Jacob Baer. His mother was Dora Bales. His family shaped his character. His real name is known to boxing historians.
Baer was proud of his name. He represented his country in the ring. His nickname “Madcap Maxie” reflects his brand. His real name is synonymous with power.
| Full Name | Maximilian Adelbert Baer |
|---|---|
| Nickname | “Madcap Maxie” |
| Other Nickname | “The Livermore Larupper” |
| Name Origin | Given Name |
Max Baer Early Life and Education
Max Baer was born on February 11, 1909, in Omaha, Nebraska. He was raised in a large family. His father was a butcher. He grew up with his siblings in Livermore, California.
Baer attended high school for only one year. He quit to work in his father’s butcher shop. He carried heavy carcasses of meat. This work developed his powerful shoulders. He credited this job for his punching power.
Baer began boxing as a youth. He set up his own gym on his father’s ranch. He trained rigorously for his career. He became a standout amateur boxer. His early life was tough but formative.
Baer‘s early life shaped his legendary career. He learned resilience from his family. He developed confidence through boxing. His education was limited but his talent was immense. His early life shaped his legendary career.
| Stage | Details |
|---|---|
| Birth | February 11, 1909 |
| Family | Livermore, California |
| Education | One Year of High School |
| First Job | Butcher’s Assistant |
Max Baer Parents and Siblings
Max Baer was born to Jacob Baer and Dora Bales. His father was a butcher. His father was the son of Jewish immigrants. His mother was of Scottish descent. His parents shaped his values.
Baer had 2 sisters named Frances and Bernice. He also had a younger brother named Buddy Baer. Buddy was also a professional boxer. His siblings remain private figures. His family remains important to him.
Baer‘s father was a major influence. He instilled discipline in him. His mother encouraged his athletic dreams. His family shaped his character.
Baer credits his family for his success. His parents instilled discipline in him. His siblings supported his career. His family remains his foundation. His parents are proud of his achievements.
| Family Member | Relationship |
|---|---|
| Jacob Baer | Father |
| Dora Bales | Mother |
| Frances May Baer | Sister |
| Bernice Jeanette Baer | Sister |
| Buddy Baer | Brother |
| Mary Ellen Sullivan | Wife |
| 3 Children | Sons and Daughter |
Max Baer Before Fame
Max Baer had a short amateur career. He turned professional in 1929. He made his debut on May 16, 1929. He fought Chief Caribou in Stockton, California. He won by knockout in the second round. This victory launched his professional career.
Baer won his first several fights. He scored knockout victories over multiple opponents. He defeated top contenders in the heavyweight division. He became a top contender for the world title. His before fame story is inspiring.
Baer‘s hard work paid off. He became a global superstar. He defeated Max Schmeling in 1933. His career took off after that. His before fame journey is remarkable.
Baer fought Frankie Campbell in 1930. He won by knockout. Campbell later died from his injuries. Baer was charged with manslaughter. He was acquitted but banned from boxing in California for a year. He gave his purses to Campbell’s family.
| Year | Phase |
|---|---|
| 1929 | Professional Debut |
| 1930 | Fought Frankie Campbell |
| 1933 | Defeated Max Schmeling |
| 1934 | World Heavyweight Title |
Max Baer Career

Max Baer turned professional in 1929. He won his first world title in 1934. He defeated Primo Carnera for the heavyweight title. He won by 11th-round KO in New York. He became a global superstar.
Baer defended his title against James J. Braddock in 1935. He lost by unanimous decision. He held the title for one year. He was a dominant champion during his reign. He fought many of the best heavyweights of his era.
Baer retired in 1941 with a record of 68-13 with 51 knockouts. He scored 51 knockouts in his career. He was ranked number 22 on The Ring‘s list of the greatest punchers of all time. His career is legendary.
Baer became an actor after his retirement. He starred in almost 20 movies. He also worked as a referee. He remained a popular figure in boxing. His career is legendary.
| Year | Career Milestone |
|---|---|
| 1929 | Professional Debut |
| 1933 | Defeated Max Schmeling |
| 1934 | World Heavyweight Title |
| 1935 | Lost Title to Braddock |
| 1941 | Retired |
| 1995 | IBHOF Induction |
Max Baer Family
Max Baer was married to Mary Ellen Sullivan. They married on June 29, 1935. They had 3 children together. Their children are Max Jr., James, and Maudie. Their family was close and supportive.
Baer‘s son Max Baer Jr. is a famous actor. He is best known for playing Jethro Bodine on The Beverly Hillbillies. His son James Manny Baer was born in 1941. His daughter Maudie Marian Baer was born in 1944.
Baer values his family above fame. He spent quality time with his children. He enjoyed his retirement with his wife. He remained close to his siblings. His family shaped his life.
Baer planned to focus on his family. He wanted to raise his children well. He aimed to be a good father. He planned to continue his charity work. His family life was fulfilling.
| Family Member | Relationship |
|---|---|
| Mary Ellen Sullivan | Wife |
| Max Baer Jr. | Son |
| James Manny Baer | Son |
| Maudie Marian Baer | Daughter |
| Buddy Baer | Brother |
Max Baer Wife, Girlfriend, or Partner
Max Baer was married to Mary Ellen Sullivan. He was previously married to Dorothy Dunbar. Dorothy was an actress. They married in 1931 and divorced in 1933. They had no children together.
Baer met Mary Ellen later in his life. They began dating in the 1930s. They married in a private ceremony. She supported his career. She remains a strong figure in his legacy.
Baer and Mary Ellen had 3 children together. Their family lived in Sacramento, California. They valued their privacy. Their relationship was built on mutual respect.
Baer loved his wife deeply. He credited her for his stability. He worked hard to be a good husband. Their relationship was built on forgiveness. Their love story is inspiring.
| Partner | Relationship | Status |
|---|---|---|
| Mary Ellen Sullivan | Wife | Married 1935–1959 |
| Dorothy Dunbar | Ex-Wife | Divorced 1933 |
| 3 Children | Sons and Daughter | Private |
Max Baer Age, Height, Weight and Physical Appearance

Max Baer died at age 50 on November 21, 1959. He was born on February 11, 1909. He stood 6 feet 2.5 inches tall. He weighed approximately 210 pounds. He had a reach of 81 inches.
Baer had dark brown eyes and black hair. He had a muscular and powerful build. He maintained his physique through training. He had a fit and strong body. He remains in boxing history as a physical specimen.
Baer fought in the orthodox stance. He used his power and right hand to win. He was a dominant champion. His physical attributes gave him an advantage. He intimidated opponents with his skills.
Baer‘s appearance is iconic. He dressed well and wore classy outfits. He drove luxury cars. His physical confidence was unmatched. His appearance reflects his success.
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Height | 6 feet 2.5 inches (189 cm) |
| Weight | 210 pounds (95 kg) |
| Reach | 81 inches (206 cm) |
| Eye Color | Dark Brown |
| Hair Color | Black |
| Body Type | Muscular / Powerful |
| Stance | Orthodox |
Max Baer Social Media Presence
Max Baer had no social media presence. He died in 1959 before social media existed. His legacy is preserved through historical records. His story is shared on modern platforms.
Baer‘s life is documented in films and books. His fights are available on YouTube. His story is taught in schools. His legacy lives on through boxing historians. His social media presence is posthumous and celebratory.
Baer‘s legacy lives on through boxing historians. His achievements are celebrated annually. Social media users discuss his impact regularly. His story trends on anniversaries. His social media presence is posthumous and celebratory.
Baer represents resilience and power. His life inspires activists and athletes. His memory is honored by boxing fans. His social media presence is posthumous and celebratory.
| Platform | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Documentaries | ESPN, HBO films |
| Books | Boxing history books |
| YouTube | Fight archives |
Max Baer Awards and Achievements
Max Baer was named Fighter of the Year by The Ring in 1933 and 1935. He was inducted into the International Boxing Hall of Fame in 1995. He was the world heavyweight champion from 1934 to 1935. He was ranked number 22 on The Ring‘s list of the 100 greatest punchers of all time.
Baer won the world heavyweight title in 1934. He scored 51 knockouts in his career. He was a fan favorite for his power. He was a pioneer in boxing. His achievements are numerous.
Baer‘s awards reflect his impact. He inspired many young boxers. He is a role model for American athletes. He continues to be respected. His legacy is secure.
| Category | Year(s) | Award / Recognition |
|---|---|---|
| The Ring | 1933, 1935 | Fighter of the Year |
| IBHOF | 1995 | Inducted |
| The Ring | 2003 | 22nd Greatest Puncher |
Max Baer Net Worth

Max Baer had an estimated net worth of $200,000 at his death. His wealth came from boxing purses and acting. He earned over $1 million during his career. He also earned from movies and endorsements. His net worth was modest compared to his earnings.
Baer earned an estimated $200,000 guarantee for his fight against Joe Louis. He earned millions from his fights against Primo Carnera and Max Schmeling. He also earned from pay-per-view shares. He spent his money freely. He faced financial troubles after retirement.
Baer owned a home in Sacramento. He also had investments in real estate. He worked as a brand ambassador for various companies. He earned from guest appearances. His assets included luxury cars.
Baer‘s net worth is estimated by boxing sources. Some sources report different figures. The widely accepted estimate is $200,000. His wealth reflects his boxing success. He remains financially stable.
| Income Source | Details |
|---|---|
| Boxing Purses | $1 million career earnings |
| Acting | TV and film appearances |
| Business | Real estate, investments |
| Appearances | Guest appearances |
Max Baer Nationality and Religion
Max Baer was an American citizen. He was born in Omaha, Nebraska. He grew up in Livermore, California. He held American nationality. He is proud of his country. He represented the USA in boxing.
Baer is of Jewish and Scottish descent. His father was Jewish. His mother was Scottish. His ethnicity is White. His religion is Christianity. He was raised Catholic. His faith is personal to him.
Baer serves as a role model for his community. He gives back to his hometown. He is proud of his American roots. His nationality is central to his identity. He represents hope for many.
Baer‘s religion is personal to him. He does not discuss it publicly. He focuses on his family and career. His nationality and heritage shaped his life. His background influences his public persona.
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Nationality | American |
| Ethnicity | Jewish, Scottish |
| Religion | Christianity |
| Hometown | Livermore, California |
Max Baer Public Image
Max Baer had a complex public image. He is respected as a boxing legend. He is known for his charisma and charity. He is admired by fans and peers. His image is iconic.
Baer was known for his aggressive style. He entertained the crowd. He was a gentleman in the ring. He fought with heart. His public image was electrifying.
Baer faced criticism for his defensive style. Many believed he should have been more aggressive. He ignored the critics. His public image is complex.
Baer is now seen as a legend. He is respected for his achievements. He is remembered for his talent. He is honored by the boxing community. His public image is redeemed by history.
| Phase | Public Image |
|---|---|
| 1929–1934 | Rising star |
| 1934–1935 | Dominant champion |
| 1935–1959 | Legend and icon |
Max Baer Legacy and Impact
Max Baer has a lasting legacy in boxing. He is considered one of the greatest heavyweights of all time. He won world titles in 1 weight class. He changed the sport with his power. His legacy is monumental.
Baer inspired generations of fighters. He was a dominant champion. He defeated future Hall of Famers. He was a pioneer in boxing. His impact is profound.
Baer became the first boxer to bring the heavyweight title back to the United States. This achievement cemented his legacy. He proved that power matters. He inspired heavyweight fighters.
Baer was inducted into the International Boxing Hall of Fame in 1995. His story is taught in boxing gyms. His legacy inspires athletes. His impact is eternal. He is a true icon.
| Aspect | Impact |
|---|---|
| Boxing | 1-division world champion |
| Inspiration | Inspired heavyweight fighters |
| Hall of Fame | Inducted in 1995 |
| Legacy | All-time great |
Max Baer Future Plans and Goals
Max Baer died in 1959. He had no future plans or goals after his death. His legacy continues to inspire people. His story is shared with new generations. His impact lives on.
Baer‘s goal was to be the best boxer in the world. He achieved this goal in 1934. He wanted to break racial barriers. He succeeded in doing so. His goals were ambitious and courageous.
Baer‘s future plans included acting ventures. He opened a restaurant and nightclub. He invested in real estate. He wanted to build wealth for his family. His plans were cut short by his death.
Baer‘s legacy goal is to inspire others. His life teaches resilience and dignity. His story motivates people to fight for justice. His impact continues to grow. His future is his legacy.
| Plan | Details |
|---|---|
| Boxing | Become World Champion |
| Acting | TV and film career |
| Legacy | Inspire future generations |
Max Baer Boxing Career
Max Baer turned professional in 1929. He won his first world title in 1934. He defeated Primo Carnera for the heavyweight title. He won by 11th-round KO in New York. He became a global superstar.
Baer defended his title against James J. Braddock in 1935. He lost by unanimous decision. He held the title for one year. He was a dominant champion during his reign. He fought many of the best heavyweights of his era.
Baer retired in 1941 with a record of 68-13 with 51 knockouts. He scored 51 knockouts in his career. He was ranked number 22 on The Ring‘s list of the greatest punchers of all time. His career is legendary.
Baer became an actor after his retirement. He starred in almost 20 movies. He also worked as a referee. He remained a popular figure in boxing. His career is legendary.
| Year | Career / Achievement |
|---|---|
| 1929 | Professional Debut |
| 1933 | Defeated Max Schmeling |
| 1934 | World Heavyweight Title |
| 1935 | Lost Title to Braddock |
| 1941 | Retired |
| 1995 | IBHOF Induction |
Max Baer Championships and Achievements
| Championship | Times | Years |
|---|---|---|
| World Heavyweight | 1 | 1934–1935 |
| IBHOF Induction | 1 | 1995 |
| The Ring Fighter of the Year | 2 | 1933, 1935 |
| The Ring Greatest Punchers | 1 | 2003 |
Max Baer Matches List
- Max Baer vs. Chief Caribou – 1929 (Debut Win)
- Max Baer vs. Frankie Campbell – 1930 (Win)
- Max Baer vs. Max Schmeling – 1933 (Win)
- Max Baer vs. Primo Carnera – 1934 (World Heavyweight Title)
- Max Baer vs. James J. Braddock – 1935 (Loss)
- Max Baer vs. Joe Louis – 1935 (Loss)
- Max Baer vs. Tony Galento – 1940 (Win)
- Max Baer vs. Lou Nova – 1941 (Loss)
- Max Baer vs. Tommy Farr – 1937 (Win)
- Max Baer vs. Arturo Godoy – 1940 (Win)
- Max Baer vs. Pat Comiskey – 1940 (Win)
- Max Baer vs. Buddy Baer – 1941 (Win)
- Max Baer vs. King Levinsky – 1933 (Win)
- Max Baer vs. Walter Cobb – 1933 (Win)
- Max Baer vs. Les Kennedy – 1930 (Loss)
- Max Baer vs. Ernie Schaaf – 1932 (Win)
- Max Baer vs. Tuffy Griffiths – 1931 (Win)
- Max Baer vs. Jack Van Noy – 1931 (Win)
- Max Baer vs. Tom Heeney – 1931 (Win)
- Max Baer vs. Paulino Uzcudun – 1933 (Win)
Max Baer Hobbies
- Acting
- Training boxing
- Watching sports
- Spending time with family
- Traveling
- Investing in business
- Coaching fighters
- Playing cards
- Listening to music
- Reading
Max Baer Favorite Things
- Favorite Food: American cuisine
- Favorite Drink: Water
- Favorite Car: Luxury automobiles
- Favorite City: Livermore
- Favorite Hobby: Acting
- Favorite Music: Jazz
- Favorite Movie: Westerns
- Favorite Sport: Boxing
- Favorite Quote: “I am the best”
- Favorite Vacation: Beach
Max Baer Lesser-Known Facts
| Fact No. | Lesser-Known Fact |
|---|---|
| 1 | He was born in Omaha, Nebraska. |
| 2 | His father was a butcher. |
| 3 | He quit school after one year. |
| 4 | He worked in his father’s butcher shop. |
| 5 | He began boxing as a youth. |
| 6 | He turned professional in 1929. |
| 7 | He fought Frankie Campbell in 1930. |
| 8 | Campbell died after their fight. |
| 9 | He defeated Max Schmeling in 1933. |
| 10 | He won the world heavyweight title in 1934. |
| 11 | He defeated Primo Carnera for the title. |
| 12 | He lost the title to James J. Braddock in 1935. |
| 13 | He earned a $200,000 guarantee for the Joe Louis fight. |
| 14 | He married Mary Ellen Sullivan in 1935. |
| 15 | He had 3 children. |
| 16 | His son Max Jr. played Jethro on The Beverly Hillbillies. |
| 17 | He appeared in almost 20 movies. |
| 18 | He was inducted into the IBHOF in 1995. |
FAQs
Q1: What was Max Baer’s net worth?
Max Baer had an estimated net worth of $200,000 at his death. His income came from boxing purses and acting.
Q2: How old was Max Baer when he died?
Max Baer died at age 50 on November 21, 1959. He was born on February 11, 1909.
Q3: What was Max Baer’s height and weight?
Max Baer was 6 feet 2.5 inches tall. He weighed about 210 pounds. He had a reach of 81 inches.
Q4: Was Max Baer married?
Yes, Max Baer was married to Mary Ellen Sullivan. He was previously married to Dorothy Dunbar. He had 3 children.
Q5: What was Max Baer’s real name?
His real name was Maximilian Adelbert Baer. He was known as “Madcap Maxie.” He was also called “The Livermore Larupper.”
Q6: How many world titles did Max Baer win?
Max Baer won the world heavyweight title in 1934. He held the title until 1935.
Q7: Did Max Baer fight Joe Louis?
Yes, Max Baer fought Joe Louis in 1935. He lost by knockout. He earned a $200,000 guarantee for the fight.
Conclusion
Max Baer was a legendary American boxer and the world heavyweight champion from 1934 to 1935. His real name was Maximilian Adelbert Baer. He was born on February 11, 1909, in Omaha, Nebraska. He died on November 21, 1959, at age 50. He stood 6 feet 2.5 inches and weighed 210 pounds.
He started his boxing career in 1929. His major works include world titles in 1 weight class. He defeated Primo Carnera for the title in 1934. He fights for no promotional company. His net worth was $200,000 at his death.
He was inducted into the International Boxing Hall of Fame in 1995. His legacy inspires millions worldwide. He is a symbol of power and resilience. His impact is eternal.
This mirrors the inspirational and detailed structure of the previous profiles, highlighting Max Baer‘s journey from a butcher’s shop in Livermore to global boxing superstardom.

