Bubi Scholz, whose real name was Gustav Scholz, was one of Berlin’s most famous post-war boxers. Born in 1930 in the working-class district of Prenzlauer Berg, he was the son of a blacksmith and a housewife. Scholz grew up amidst the ruins of the Second World War, and despite his humble beginnings, in 1947 he embarked on a boxing journey that would quickly change his life. Known for his determination and powerful yet quick fighting style, he became a prominent figure in the boxing world in the 1950s and 1960s, achieving both national and international fame.
Over the course of his career, Scholz fought a total of 96 fights, recording 88 wins (46 by knockout), six draws and only two losses. His success in the ring elevated him to the upper echelons of society, where he mingled with the political and business elite. His charm and public appeal made him a popular subject for magazines, and he even ventured into music and acting, releasing several records and appearing in films and television shows. Scholz’s blend of athletic talent and celebrity status made him a legendary figure in Berlin’s rich history.
In 1958, Bubi Scholz opened his first perfume shop in Berlin's Hansaplatz. At the time, the Hansaviertel, revitalised by the Interbau 57 architecture exhibition, symbolised the wealth and modernity of West Berlin. Scholz’s perfume shop offered high-quality fragrances from around the world and quickly became a local hotspot, attracting not only customers but also fans eager to catch a glimpse of the boxing star. The shop, as local resident Sabine recalls, was “elegant” and perfectly reflected the thriving culture of West Berlin, symbolising the city’s freedom and prosperity during the Cold War.
After his illustrious boxing career ended, Scholz struggled to adapt to life away from the spotlight. He faced personal challenges, including issues with alcoholism as he dealt with the loss of his fame. A major turning point in his life came in 1984 when his first wife, Helga Scholz, was tragically shot in their home. Scholz was convicted of manslaughter and sentenced to six years in prison, an event that again brought him extensive media attention and severely damaged his reputation. Despite the scandal, his perfume shop remained in operation until 2000, when his second wife decided to close it.
Unfortunately, Bubi Scholz’s health deteriorated in his later years, and he passed away from heart failure in 2000 at the age of seventy. With his death, both he and his beloved perfume shop faded from the world, marking the end of a turbulent yet remarkable chapter in Berlin’s history.
