Ernst Weiss: A boxer between fame and persecution in the Nazi regime

Ernst Weiss: A boxer between fame and persecution in the Nazi regime

On November 9th, the day on which the victims of National Socialism are remembered, we take a look at the eventful life of the Viennese Ernst Weiss, a boxer with Jewish roots whose career took fascinating turns during the Nazi era, which was characterized by persecution and threats. Weiss, born on March 5, 1912 in Vienna, became a three-time European champion in various weight classes, which cemented his status as one of the most influential figures in boxing at the time.

In his impressive career, Weiss fought in the flyweight, bantamweight and featherweight weight classes. He started his boxing career in 1933 and became Austrian flyweight champion in 1934. A particular highlight of his career was the victory over his idol, Victor “Young” Perez, in 1936. These successes not only highlight his skills in the ring, but also show how he held his own in an extremely difficult environment. Weiss boxed a total of 12 times in 1936 and 11 in 1937, and so his presence in the boxing ring expanded over the years until the political situation dramatically influenced his everyday life. taz.de reports that Weiss remained relatively safe despite his Jewish origins, which classified him as a "Mischling II degree", probably due to his fame in the boxing scene.

The influence of the political situation

After Austria's annexation to Nazi Germany in 1938, Weiss moved to Berlin. Meanwhile, he had another fight against Perez in the Deutschlandhalle, knowing that this friend and rival would soon be deported and murdered. Weiss, who experienced the horrors of war first hand, was active from 1942 until the surrender of the Wehrmacht and attracted the attention of the Gestapo, but was arrested in early November 1944 due to insufficient evidence and the charges were later dropped.

A notable facet of his life is his involvement in the Austrian resistance. Despite the dangers that threatened him because of his Jewish origins, he defended himself against the regime. The complexity of his identity and life story impressively demonstrates the danger of quick judgments and ensures that his legacy extends beyond the world of sports.

After boxing career

After the war, Weiss continued his career as a boxing trainer and was instrumental in promoting many young talents in the scene, including the future European heavyweight champion, Josef Weidinger. With a total of 92 fights, 58 of which were wins, 16 by knockout. and 21 defeats, his statistics impressively show the successes he was able to achieve in the ring. His last fight ended in a draw in 1946.

Ernst Weiss died on April 29, 1997 in his hometown of Vienna, where he is also buried. His son, Peter Weiss, followed in his father's footsteps and became a successful boxer himself and later also a trainer. Wikipedia) has documented his life story and successes in a comprehensive article that takes into account not only the sporting highlights, but also the cultural and historical context.

Ernst Weiss' life is a remarkable contribution to the history of boxing and Jewish life in Austria. His legacy not only remains enshrined in the sport's memory book, but also reminds us of the dark chapters of history that must not be forgotten.