The boxing match between Primo Carnera and Ernie Schaaf at Madison Square Garden was a contest that captured the attention of boxing fans across the nation. Carnera, an Italian heavyweight who stood 6 feet 6 inches tall and weighed over 260 pounds, was known for his remarkable strength and had been making waves in the boxing world. In contrast, Ernie Schaaf, an American fighter, was also tall and noted for his boxing skills and resilience in the ring. Their match on the evening of February 10, 1933, was anticipated by many as two heavyweights faced off for supremacy in the era of heavyweight boxing.

Throughout the fight, both boxers displayed their skills with Carnera utilizing his size advantage while Schaaf focused on his quickness and technique. However, as the fight wore on, exhaustion began to take its toll on both fighters. Finally, in the 13th round, Carnera landed a decisive blow that knocked Schaaf to the canvas. While Carnera celebrated his victory in the ring, enthusiasm quickly faded as reports surfaced that Schaaf had sustained severe injuries. Just four days later, Schaaf tragically passed away, raising significant concerns about the dangers of boxing and the long-term effects of such injuries on fighters.

This match revealed the harsh realities of the sport, where athleticism and competition could turn perilous in an instant. The tragic outcome of Schaaf's injuries led to increased scrutiny over safety regulations within boxing, prompting discussions among fighters, promoters, and fans alike on how to protect athletes in high-risk sports. The event remains a pivotal point in boxing history, enshrining the narrative around athlete safety and the responsibility of those involved in overseeing the sport.