(by Charlie Redner)
During and well after Joey Giardello’s days in the ring, he used his celebrity for the benefit of children with disabilities. Not only did he fight exhibitions but he staged two events that brought the best fighters of the 50’s and 60’s together for these children. Joey collected boxing greats: Carmen Basillio, Tippy Larkin, Chuck Davey, Willie Pep, Charlie Fusari, Billy Graham, Rocky Graziano, Chico Vejar, Jake LaMotta, Paul Pender, Ernie Durando, Sandy Saddler, Billy Conn and others. Many would attend the “Carnival of Champion” just to see the referees: Heavyweight champions, "The Manassa Mauler,” Jack Dempsey; Jersey Joe Walcott; and “Cinderella Man,” James Braddock. He gathered these fighters twice (1969 and 1972) and donated all the proceeds to charity.
(by Charlie Redner)
(by Charlie Redner)
