By Joseph Herron: Renowned announcer Thomas Treiber, whose career spanned countless historic nights in combat sports, remembers May 17, 2024, as a night of unparalleled intensity.
That night 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 meters away, sitting behind the DAZN commentary team.
“It was incredible to see two of the greatest heavyweights of our time, so close that I could virtually feel the punches from ringside,” said Treiber. “With undisputed supremacy on the line, you can feel the electricity in the air.”
While recalling 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 defeated Fury. “When Usyk seriously hurt Fury in the ninth, we couldn’t believe what we were seeing,” he recalled. “It was so surreal being part of the event and witnessing heavyweight boxing history live before our eyes.”
The setting itself was as significant as the fight. “Two unbeaten heavyweights of all time fighting for all the marbles in the glamor division of boxing in Riyadh was truly something to see and an extremely humbling experience,” said Treiber, adding that he was honored to serve as and the ring announcer for the preliminaries. contests
When the final bell rang, and the judges deliberated, Treiber knew the decision would be close.
“The longer it took Michael Buffer to announce the judges’ decision, I knew it would be a tight verdict,” he said. “Although Fury finished the fight gallantly, I felt that Usyk would receive the reception in a split decision verdict. I believe that the right man got the victory.”
With the rematch scheduled for December 21, 2024, Treiber is confident that fans will be treated to another masterpiece.
“I absolutely believe that the rematch will be a continuation of their classic in May,” 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 bout highlight its importance not just as a sporting event, but as a historic moment for the heavyweight division.
All eyes will return 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 card will be broadcast live on DAZN Pay-Per-View in the US and Canada for a minimum of $39.95
