Don't you get your item back if you defeat the Big Bandit before he runs away? -- Son of Suns

Can't remember really good, but I'm sure, that they run away with it. Bad bandit! Paper Jorge ( Talk·Contributions·) Paper Jorge was here at... 19:48, 15 September 2006 (EDT)

You get one turn, and if you beat them then, you get it back. Superchao 19:50, 15 September 2006 (EDT)
Same with the normal Bandit and Badge Bandit. If they are still alive when its turn comes again, it will run away. It's important to try to miss only one block, or you'll have to make a sacrifice – coin, item or badge. Wayoshi ( T·C·@ ) 21:15, 15
September 2006 (EDT)

Still their no match for Mario!

This has been a message from Thirsty For Power