Dylan Salvador (49-13-1, 21 KO's) had proved himself one of Europe's top-level Muay Thai talents before crossing over into GLORY last year. On his debut he won a four-man Lightweight Contender Tournament, an impressive feat because he usually fights at featherweight.
Winning the tournament earned him a lightweight title shot against Sitthichai, which he took at GLORY 39. They had a good fight but Sitthichai was in control and benefited from a size advantage. After losing a decision, Salvador elected to return to his usual featherweight.
For his first fight in the GLORY featherweight division he was matched with former champion Serhiy Adamchuk (35-8, 14 KO's). The tricky Ukrainian was a puzzle nobody could figure out when he first came into GLORY but going into this one he was 1-3 in his last four and in need of a win.
Southpaws usually have an advantage because the vast majority of fighters are orthodox right-handers and thus are not used to fighting opponents who stand the 'wrong' way. In this instance they cancelled each other out, both being left-handed fighters, but there was no detriment to the action.
Adamchuk started quick, pressing forwards and rushing Salvador with fast hand combinations. Salvador ate the initial punches but quickly clicked into gear and got to work, making for a fast-paced first round in which the scoring was traded freely. Adamchuk brought the forward pressure and was busier with the hands, while Salvador continually found a home for his kicks and knees.
Things opened up even more in the second. The fight developed into a technical scrap as both fighters deployed their entire arsenal: punches, kicks, knees, clinch-knees, jump-knees and spinning strikes were all in evidence. Adamchuk continued maintaining the forward pressure and Salvador led him on, making for a whirlwind of action which travelled around the ring.
The start of the third was an absolute war. Things slowed a little in in the final minute as both fighters taxed their gas tanks, but highlight moments were still abundant: A 'rolling thunder' attempt from Adamchuk, for example, was followed moments later by Salvador bravely and recklessly ducking under a body kick effort and having Adamchuk pirouette harmlessly over him.
After three great rounds the fight went to the judges. All five saw it in favor of Adamchuk, rewarding his forward-pressure, ring control and cleaner boxing work. With this fight being an official featherweight contender battle, Adamchuk now goes forward to challenge Robin van Roosmalen for his belt.
Serhiy Adamchuk def. Dylan Salvador, Unanimous Decision (30-27, 30-27, 30-27, 29-28, 29-28)
