Local sports figure "Baby" Joe Mesi announced Tuesday night that he is officially running for New York State Senate in the 61st district.
"I figure the only thing dirtier than the boxing business is politics,"
Mesi joked.
Mesi, who will run as a democrat, is looking to fill the seat that is currently held my Sen. Mary Lou Rath, a republican from Williamsville. Rath intends to retire at the end of her term. She has been in the New York State Senate since 1993.
"I've always had politics in my blood," Mesi said. "I've come from a political family. They've asked me about running for a different political seat over the years, but it was never a good time because I was in my prime with my career. My career is not going on too much longer, so I'm going to focus on this campaign and be a full-time senator.
The 61st district consists of Genesee County, as well as parts of Erie County including Amherst, Clarence, and Tonawanda.
"I think a lot of people know me more for my community work than being a boxer," Mesi said. "It's because of my community work that gets me into politics now, my new venture.
"Baby" Joe Mesi started his boxing career at the age of 19. He is undefeated, having a record of 36-0 with 29 knockouts throughout his career.
Alex Rubin, Chris Ryndak, and Stephen Marth contributed to this report.
Photo: Courtesy of Laron Fomby
