VITO Mielnicki Jr posted a dominant, one-sided performance in the Prudential Center, Newark, last night, widely outpointing Poland’s Kamil Gardzielik over 10 rounds. All three judges, Lynne Carter, Mark Consentino and Paul Wallace, scored it 100-89 to the winner. The extra point was courtesy of a third-round knockdown in what was a controlled display for Vito.
Mielnicki started strongly, relaxed behind the left jab, ending his combinations on a left hook to the body. After another feeling-out second session, Mielnicki found an opening in round three as Gardzielik switched southpaw and copped a right hand shortly after, ending up on the canvas for a count.
Down for the first time as a pro, the Polish visitor shook it off and kept on switching. Blood dribbled from the visitor’s nose as the Mielnicki jab continued to pop into his face. Gardzielik landed a one-two in round five, but most of his work was pushed.
Gardzielik was forced back to the ropes in the sixth as Mielnicki hammered the body relentlessly. It was a more controlled performance from ‘White Magic’, boxing in front of his hometown crowd, working to coach Ronnie Shields’ specific instructions.
It got a little messy in round eight as some of the Roseland man’s downstairs work strayed a little low at times. Referee David Franciosi had a tough time distinguishing between what was illegal and what was legitimate. It did not deter Vito, who kept on the jab throughout, maintaining his shape and discipline.
Now 21-1-1 (12 KOs), Vito Mielnicki picked up a bundle of belts for his efforts, including the IBO Americas middleweight crown. Kamil Gardzielik suffered his first loss in a nine-year career, falling to 19-1 (4 KOs).
“I’m going back to the drawing board with my team. This is the best camp I’ve had yet. I’m extremely happy with the steps I’m taking,” said Mielnicki, who is still just a boxing baby at 23 years old.
