Controversial point deduction clouds VanNostrand-Glunder battle

In the main event of the GLORY 61 SuperFight Series in New York, former interim featherweight titleholder Kevin VanNostrand (18-3, 12 KO’s) faced off with Massaro Glunder (32-12-4, 20 KO’s).

The karate stylist VanNostrand came out with a variety of spinning attacks meant to cover distance. Glunder evaded the strikes early, but VanNostrand chained together a series of techniques, connecting with a spinning backfist. 

Glunder wobbled briefly and nearly took a knee. He quickly clinched and was able to recover. VanNostrand maintained his pressure and threw with volume for the remainder of the round.

Both fighters threw caution to the wind to open the second round. Glunder willingly engaged in a firefight in the center of the ring, but both fighters failed to land any significant strikes. 

A counter right hand from Glunder caught VanNostrand flush on the jaw and dropped VanNostrand. The American recovered and was greeted with a flying knee from Glunder. Despite the knockdown, VanNostrand did not stop attacking with spinning techniques.

The final round featured more traditional boxing from VanNostrand. He then turned his attention to low kicks, forcing Glunder to the canvas a few times. 

A clean right hand from the American was followed by a crisp left. Glunder took the punches well and answered with a head kick attempt. After a clinch, the referee stepped in and deducted a point from Glunder.

The point deduction proved to be the difference on the scorecards as VanNostrand captured the decision in his home state.

“It was alright. I think I fought hard,” said VanNostrand. “I wanted to pull off a spinning hook kick. Maybe next time you’ll see it.”

Kevin VanNostrand def. Massaro Glunder by unanimous decision (28-27 x3)