“Baby” Joe Mesi
Boxer
Politics
About “Baby” Joe Mesi
Joe Mesi: Buffalo’s Undefeated Boxing Hero
Buffalo, New York, has long been a city that celebrates its hometown heroes, and few fit that title better than “Baby” Joe Mesi. Born on November 27, 1973, in the suburb of Tonawanda, Joe rose to prominence as an undefeated heavyweight boxer. His story is one of determination, grit, and resilience—a tale that resonates deeply with the hardworking spirit of Western New York.
Early Years in Buffalo
Joe Mesi grew up in a sports-loving family in Tonawanda. He attended Sweet Home High School in nearby Amherst, where his athletic prowess blossomed. But boxing wasn’t part of Joe’s early life. It wasn’t until he was 19 years old that he first laced up a pair of gloves, a late start by boxing standards. However, his talent and work ethic quickly made up for lost time.
Joe’s amateur rise was swift and impressive. He became a New York State Golden Gloves champion, even defeating future heavyweight world champion Hasim Rahman in the amateurs. His success earned him a spot in the 1996 Olympic Trials, where he made it all the way to the finals. Though he fell short of qualifying for the Olympics, his performance solidified him as a name to watch in the boxing world.
The Undefeated Career
Joe Mesi turned professional in 1997, fighting his debut match at the iconic Apollo Theater in New York. From that moment on, he was unstoppable in the ring. Over the next decade, Joe compiled a perfect 36-0 record, including an astounding 29 knockouts. He earned the nickname “Baby Joe” for his youthful charisma and his uncanny ability to bring excitement to every fight.
Mesi wasn’t just a boxer; he was a phenomenon in Buffalo. At the height of his career, he was considered the city’s “third professional franchise,” behind the Buffalo Bills and Buffalo Sabres. Mesi filled arenas like the HSBC Arena (now KeyBank Center), where fans packed the seats to cheer on their hometown hero. His victories over top fighters like Vassiliy Jirov, Monte Barrett, and DaVarryl Williamson put him in elite company and on the brink of a world title shot.
The Setback That Changed Everything
Joe’s meteoric rise hit an unexpected roadblock in 2004. During a grueling bout against Vassiliy Jirov, Joe suffered a serious head injury, resulting in subdural hematomas. While he won the fight, the injuries cast doubt on his future in the sport.
The Nevada State Athletic Commission suspended Mesi’s boxing license, citing the dangers posed by his condition. Despite years of legal challenges and expert testimonies arguing that he had fully healed, regulatory hurdles and safety concerns effectively ended his career. Joe returned to the ring briefly in 2006, fighting and winning a handful of matches, but the momentum of his career had been irreparably slowed. He retired in 2007 with his undefeated record intact—a remarkable feat in the heavyweight division.
Life After Boxing
Joe Mesi’s story didn’t end when he hung up his gloves. He transitioned into politics, running for the New York State Senate in 2008. Although he didn’t win the seat, the campaign demonstrated his commitment to serving the Buffalo community. He later took on a role as a local liaison for the Democratic Senate Majority, continuing his work in public service.
Joe also became an advocate for health and philanthropy. He launched a foundation to raise awareness about organ donation, inspired by his cousin’s need for a kidney transplant. The foundation contributed significantly to local causes, including the Golisano Children’s Hospital in Rochester. His generosity and community focus only deepened his connection with the people of Buffalo.
A Lasting Legacy
Though his time in the boxing spotlight was cut short, Joe Mesi remains a beloved figure in Buffalo sports history. He was inducted into the Greater Buffalo Sports Hall of Fame in 2018, a testament to his impact both in and out of the ring. His story is one of triumph and perseverance, a source of pride for the city he calls home.
Today, Joe Mesi continues to inspire new generations of Buffalonians. Whether it’s through public appearances, charitable work, or simply sharing his wisdom, he remains an enduring symbol of resilience and determination. For a city that prides itself on grit, heart, and loyalty, Joe Mesi is the perfect hometown hero.
Buffalo may be known for its snowstorms and sports teams, but thanks to “Baby Joe,” it’s also known for producing one of the greatest undefeated heavyweights in boxing history. His legacy ensures that the name Joe Mesi will forever be associated with fighting spirit—both inside the ring and out.