By Tony Farina
Joe Mesi, known to all of us in Western New York as “Baby” Joe Mesi, was a heroic figure in the boxing ring, winning all 36 of his professional fights, 29 by knockout before brain injury cut short his fabulous ring career even as his boxing exploits had moved him to number one heavyweight in the world rankings, likely very close to a championship fight at the time he was injured in 2004 in a fight he still managed to win.
But Joe, known by all of us as Buffalo’s third professional franchise, is still around and he was recently seen by many when he accompanied the rock band SoleTurn at their terrific concert back on May 31 at the Caz in South Buffalo when the boxer became a part of the show with a song called “The Contender” featured in the sold-out debut album event. Joe was super introducing the group and you can see him again next Tuesday, Sept. 16, at 4:40 p. m. on Ch. 4 for a live interview.
Brian Tabor of Ch. 4 tells us Joe and his two podcast colleagues, Jay Manno and D. J. Anthony, have started the podcast called Gentlemen Unscripted, and there is lots of excitement to view these talented gentlemen as they talk about the podcast and how much it means to all of them to have the opportunity to talk about anything and everything that pops into their heads. Should be lots of fun for sure and boxing is likely to come up I’m sure.
Don’t think there’s anything off the table and should be a great run for “Baby” Joe and his group as they kick off the podcast idea on Ch. 4 next Tuesday.
My best wishes to Joe for all the great memories he gave us all in the ring and he continues to be one of Buffalo’s best boosters.
Score a knockout Joe, like old times.