BAKSI, JOE SIGNED PHOTOGRAPH

HISTORY: Joe Baksi (January 14, 1922 – August 6, 1977) was a top heavyweight contender who defeated fighters such as Tami Mauriello, Lee Savold, Lou Nova, and Freddie Mills, while losing decisions to Jersey Joe Walcott and Ezzard Charles. After being beaten by Charles, his status as a contender faded. After beating some obscure and aging boxers, he went into semi-retirement in 1951. He then made a comeback attempt in 1954, fighting Billy Smith, who he knocked out in the first round. His second match was with a tougher opponent, Bob "The Grinder" Baker, who was the 7-5 favorite. Baksi had little to offer except courage and stamina, and lost by unanimous decision. Baksi's manager, Leo Feureisen, collapsed during the fight and died in the dressing room a short while after. Baksi went into permanent retirement after the bout with a final record of 60-9-3. He then became a teamster and later an ironworker and joined the International Brotherhood of Ironworkers. Offered here is an original promotional photograph of Joe Baksi which he has boldly signed in ink.

FULL DESCRIPTION: This is an original promotional photo of Joe Baksi in fight pose. Bold, clear image. Clean front and back. Tiny creases in white border corners. Boldly signed in fountain pen, "To Sgt. Charles Lesemann Best Wishes from your friend Joe Baksi." 8" x 10."