19.01.04 – By Jim Amato: I recently tuned in to ESPN to see Matt Vanda be AWARDED a decision over a very capable ex-contender, Sam Garr. SORRY…Matt Vanda did not win this fight. No way, no how! Matt has talent and he could have won this fight without doubt but he needs to take that next step. The one that will take him to the next level. Matt could have won…he should have won, but he was TOO afraid to make a mistake.
I’m not doubting his heart, he’s a gamer. Matt should have told himself, I’m going after this guy. Make him fight MY fight ! He let Garr fight his. You got the nod but not the confidence you SHOULD have received from that kind of fight at this stage of your career. Inside you must know it was too close for comfort. Next step ? No more Garr’s… They are the kind of fighters that can make you look BAD. Go for the GUSTO !!! How about a local showdown with Tony Bonsante ? How about coming to Ohio and taking on Youngstown’s Kelly Pavlik? ESPN might like that one ?
Matt, your State NEEDS to re-instate a Commission. NOW !!! Not later… The verdict you received over Garr will cause a lot of controversy. Please do not doubt that for a minute ! There are people in your State that can work for the re-instatement of a new commission. Scott LeDoux is one of them. In your state you have the very knowledgeable, George Blair and Jim Glancey.
Why not go back to the days of the Gibbons brothers or the Flanagan brothers ? Your state carries a proud fistic history. What about the era of LeDoux, Duane and Rod Bobick ? What about the great following of Pat O’Conner ? Matt Vanda HAS the talent. I saw a very tough young man in there against Garr. There is a fork in the road. Will Matt choose the right path ?