Schmeling 's wife and mother were kept from traveling with him to avoid the chances of defection .
Nevertheless , the Nazi regime exploited Schmeling in its propaganda efforts , and took careful steps to at least ensure Schmeling 's nominal compliance .
Schmeling 's wife and mother were kept from traveling with Schmeling to avoid the chances of defection .
Nevertheless , the Nazi regime exploited Schmeling in its propaganda efforts , and took careful steps to at least ensure Schmeling 's nominal compliance .