The Melbourne plumber, who’s training includes ballet, had danced, ducked and weaved his way into the semi-finals with wins against vastly more experienced and well credentialed fighters.

But today he met Cuban superstar Andy Cruz. The two-time world champion entered the ring with a 110-to-8-win loss record. He had been beaten just twice in the past six years and showed why he is regarded as the best pound for pound amateur boxer on the planet.

Before the fight Garside had spoken of his admiration for Cruz, “I’m a fan, I’m grateful to have the chance to share the ring with him.”

Garside opened the fight trying to outwit Cruz at his own game. Feints and tricks used to draw his opponent in, with the hope of counter punching. However, Cruz used all his vast skill and speed to negate Garside’s strategy.

The Cuban, a full-time athlete, was just too good. At the end of the opening round Garside was behind on every card. Trainer Kevin Smith still rightly praising the young Australian for committing to the game plan and imploring him to stick with it and try to be quicker on the counter.

The second round started the same as the first, Garside was being outclassed, bravely he then fell back to plan B. His strategy was then to try to make it a war, to fight inside removing the Cuba’s advantage in speed and footwork.

Cruz showed that he was equally at home fighting in a phone box, the result was more punishment for Garside who bravely kept coming forward, hoping to land a punch that would steal the fight.

The young Aussie won plenty of respect from his opponent. Despite a standing eight count and coping constant punishment his desire never wavered.

 It was a gusty display from a man who is clearly the second-best fighter in the division, sadly the best fighter was in his half of the draw. Only a massive upset will stop Cruz from claiming gold in the final against the American Kayshawn Davis.

After the fight, Garside who is renowned as one of the sport’s most dedicated competitors, was typically honest and open.

“He’s an exceptional athlete, I’ve always wanted to fight him, he was just too good tonight, I’ll go back to the drawing board, make sure I train even harder. I felt outclassed, “he said.

It’s little wonder Australia has taken him into its heart “I had a red-hot crack, that’s what Australians do we have a red-hot dip and I’m proud of myself for that but I really wanted to be the first Australian to win an Olympic gold medal.”

Asked why he thinks Australia has fallen in love with Harry Garside his reply, “I don’t know about that, I’m just a normal kid from Lilydale in Victoria I just like having a chat, I’m just curious, I love talking to people I love hearing their story.

“Thank you, Australia, I love you so much. Thanks mum and dad and Brian.”

Brian Levier is his 79-year-old trainer, like mum Kate and dad Sean, he was watching at home in lockdown. There would have been tears of pride for a young man who may just go for gold in Paris.

Jon Harker