By Joseph Herron: Renowned ring announcer Thomas Treiber, whose career has spanned countless historic nights in combat sports, recalls May 17, 2024, as a night of unparalleled intensity.
That evening in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, Oleksandr Usyk and Tyson Fury squared off in a bout that decided the first undisputed heavyweight champion of the four-belt era. Treiber had the privilege of witnessing the action from just five feet away, seated behind the DAZN commentary team.
“It was incredible seeing two of the greatest heavyweights of our time, so close that I could virtually feel the punches from ringside,” Treiber said. “With undisputed supremacy on the line, you could feel the electricity in the air.”
While remembering that historic event, the longtime voice of Queensberry Promotions painted a vivid picture of the action in the ring.
Fury’s devastating body shots were countered by Usyk’s grit and skill, culminating in a stunning ninth round where Usyk rocked Fury. “When Usyk badly hurt Fury in the ninth, we couldn’t believe what we were seeing,” he recalled. “It was so surreal being a part of the event and witnessing heavyweight boxing history live before our very eyes.”
The setting itself was as significant as the fight. “Two undefeated all-time great heavyweight combatants squaring off for all the marbles in boxing’s glamour division in Riyadh was truly something to behold and an extremely humbling experience,” Treiber said, adding that he was honored to serve as the ring announcer for the preliminary contests.
When the final bell rang, and the judges deliberated, Treiber knew the decision would be close.
“The longer it took for Michael Buffer to announce the judges’ decision, I knew it would be a close verdict,” he noted. “Even though Fury ended the fight gallantly, I felt Usyk would get the nod in a split decision verdict. I believe the right man received the victory.”
With the rematch scheduled for December 21, 2024, Treiber is confident fans will be treated to another masterpiece.
“I absolutely believe the rematch will be a continuation of their May classic,” he said. “This will be a fitting end to what has proven to be a legendary year for our beloved pastime.”
As the boxing world eagerly anticipates the rematch, Treiber’s reflections on the first encounter underscore its importance not only as a sporting event but as a historic moment for the heavyweight division.
All eyes will once again turn to Riyadh for what promises to be another unforgettable chapter in the rivalry between two of the greatest heavyweights of this era.
Oleksandr Usyk vs. Tyson Fury 2 and the full undercard will be broadcast live on DAZN Pay-Per-View in the US and Canada for as low as $39.95
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