Mesis Want New York License

Jack and Joe Mesi beat the drum loudly at Seneca Casino

Last week Joe Mesi and his father/manager Jack were guests of Seneca Nation President Maurice “Moe” John at the Seneca Casino’s Inaugural Ball. Also in attendance was Niagara Falls Mayor Vince Anello, who recently called Mesi an economic development tool for our region.

Mayor Anello gave another supportive speech on Joe’s behalf and Joe spoke as well, Jack Mesi said on Wednesday, according to the Niagara Gazette.

Mesi (33-0, 26 KOs) is known as Buffalo’s Third Franchise and he would like nothing better than to fight at Ralph Wilson Stadium in Orchard Park. He also expects to get a shot at the heavyweight title sometime in the next two years.

Before and after each of Joe’s four matches this year, he was tested and fortunately there’s been no reoccurrence of the head injury that forced his early retirement from the ring three years ago.

It’s no longer a medical issue, Joe said at a recent press conference held at the Knights of Columbus in Niagara Falls. Now it’s a political issue.

Mesi is eager to be reinstated in his home state of New York and is brandishing a five-page report by neurosurgeons explaining his injury in detail, emphasizing that he is in good health and able to continue his pro boxing career without undue risk.

We can’t help but admire the Mesis’ tenacity and quest, but this is one instance where the deck is stacked, maybe even rightfully so for once, against the father/son team.