Henry Maske accepts aging calmly. “I don’t feel like I’m turning 60. The 50s were nothing unpleasant. I’m respectful, but not afraid,” the former boxing world champion told the German Press Agency before his 60th birthday on January 6th.
Max Schmeling, who became German heavyweight world champion more than 90 years ago, serves as a role model for Maske. “I base myself on people over 60 who impressed me. Max Schmeling was one of those people, a wonderful person,” said Maske.
In the 1990s, the Brandenburg native triggered a boxing boom in reunified Germany. In 1993, the light heavyweight defeated the American Charles Williams and secured the IBF world title – he successfully defended the belt for more than three years.
Ten years ago, Maske celebrated the special day at Europa-Park Rust near Freiburg with 300 guests. This looks different now. “For the 60th, the circle will be significantly smaller, but no less pleasant,” says the former world champion.
