JO Sports, Inc.
HISTORY: Ernie Schaaf (September 27, 1908 in Elizabeth, NJ – February 14, 1933) was a professional boxer. Schaaf is noted for boxing then-future heavyweight champion of the world Max Baer twice, the first time soundly beating Baer, and the second losing on decision. During the second fight with Baer, Schaaf was knocked senseless two seconds before the final bell, which saved him from an official knockout. It took several minutes for him to be revived. Schaaf complained of headaches thereafter, and some observers believe that he suffered brain damage. Six months later, Schaaf, again entering the ring with a future world champion, fought Primo Carnera, and suffered a knockout loss in the 13th round of 15. He fell into a coma, and was rushed to the hospital to undergo surgery. He died on Valentines Day. In his career he fought Tommy Loughran, and Young Stribling as well as Baer and Carnera. Schaaf has an official record of 55–13–2 with 1 no contest and 4 no decisions, but the no-decision bouts are due to the scoring practices of the era. Newspaper reports indicate that he won 3 of those, and lost the other 1, giving him a final record of 58–14–2 with 1 no contest. Presented here is an original album page which is signed by Ernie Schaaf. On the reverse the page is signed by Billy Petrolle. Billy Petrolle was born on January 10, 1905 in Berwick, Pennsylvania. He fought for the World Lightweight Title on November 4, 1932 against Tony Canzoneri but lost. He also fought Jack Berg, Jimmy McLarnin, and Sammy Mandell during his career.
FULL DESCRIPTION: This is an original album page signed by Ernie Schaaf which has a picture of him pasted to the right side. Boldy signed in fountain pen, "With my best wishes Ernie Schaaf Feb. 24, 1932." It is signed on the reverse, "Gunner Swain Best Wishes Billy Petrolle." Not creased or torn. Clean. Minor toning from aging 4 1/2" x 7 1/2."
