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Axel SchulzGerman boxer
Date of Birth: 09.11.1968
Country:  Germany |
Content:
- Axel Schulz: A Storied Boxing Career
- Professional Debut and EBU Title
- IBF World Title Contention
- Comeback and EBU Loss
- A Brief Return
Axel Schulz: A Storied Boxing Career
Amateur Triumphs and Early SuccessGerman professional boxer Axel Schulz emerged on the amateur scene with an impressive record of 70 wins in 98 bouts. Representing the Vorwärts club in Frankfurt, he captured the East German junior title in 1986 and the East German heavyweight championship in 1988. Schulz earned gold at the European Junior Championships and silver at the European Championships in 1989, followed by a bronze medal at the World Championships in Moscow.
Professional Debut and EBU Title
Schulz made his professional debut in 1990 and swiftly climbed the ranks. By his 14th fight, he had claimed the German heavyweight title. In 1992, he faced undefeated Nigerian Henry Akinwande for the EBU title, drawing the first encounter. However, Schulz suffered his first loss in a rematch six months later.
IBF World Title Contention
After recovering from his loss, Schulz defeated former world champion James Smith. He challenged legendary George Foreman for the IBF title in 1995, but was controversially outpointed. The IBF ordered a rematch, but Foreman declined, resulting in his title being stripped. Schulz fought for the vacant IBF belt again against Francois Botha, but lost a points decision. A second attempt against Michael Moorer also ended in defeat, leaving Schulz with three losses on his record.
Comeback and EBU Loss
Schulz returned in 1997 with a knockout victory before suffering his first knockdown as a professional against Richard Mason. He regained his EBU title in 1999, but was stopped in the eighth round by rising star Wladimir Klitschko, marking his first stoppage loss. Schulz retired from boxing after that defeat.
A Brief Return
After a seven-year hiatus, Schulz came out of retirement in 2006 but lost to Brian Minto. He suffered a knockdown and was subjected to a low blow before retiring during the sixth round.
