Eduardo “Dado” Giustini (17-3-0, 6 KO) was crowned Italian heavyweight champion for the second time, dominating belt-holder Gianmarco Cardillo (12-1-2, 2 KO) in the main event held in Scandicci (Florence). The challenger’s victory was declared by unanimous decision, with the official scorecards reading: 98-93, 98-92, 98-92.
The first round, quite balanced, immediately gave the spectators an understanding of the tactical theme of the fight. Cardillo immediately took control of the center of the ring, trying to capitalize on his larger size to apply pressure on his opponent, while Giustini preferred a counter-punching strategy, constantly moving on his feet and responding with sudden punches.
Starting from the second round, the Tuscan fighter took firm control of the match, landing his one-twos with increasing frequency, causing the champion’s nose to bleed and making it difficult for him to close the distance.
In this phase, the challenger’s tactical plan proved to be more effective. By avoiding close combat and relying on constant in-and-out movements, Giustini maximized his advantages in speed and accuracy, rendering Cardillo’s larger size completely irrelevant. The champion was hit from every angle and appeared surprised by his own difficulty in landing punches.
Cardillo had a burst of pride in the first half of the fifth round, launching himself into the attack and pinning his opponent against the ropes in an attempt to change the momentum of the fight. However, despite his effort, the attempt was too disorganized to produce any concrete results.
During the sixth and seventh rounds, Giustini significantly lowered his work rate, opting to control his opponent from a distance, dodging punches with his hands down and only landing the necessary strikes to win the rounds without taking unnecessary risks.
Cardillo’s constant switch of guard proved to be a double-edged sword for the boxer from Cassino, as he often found himself in a frontal position while executing these moves, making it easier for Giustini to catch him with quick jabs.
In the later rounds, Giustini indulged himself in more open exchanges, likely having noticed his opponent’s fatigue and deeming it safe to adopt a more reckless strategy. This choice had no negative consequences; on the contrary, it allowed the Tuscan athlete to finish the match strongly, dominating the tenth and final round.
At the end of the bout, I had a score of 99 to 91 in favor of Giustini, having given Cardillo only the first round. Thus, the judges’ decisions were correct, and the title changes hands with full merit to the challenger. We will see if the Tuscan boxer, who had previously held the Italian title in 2022, decides to defend his crown or aims for other goals.