In a heavyweight spectacle that lasted barely two minutes, Deontay “The Bronze Bomber” Wilder thundered through Dominic Breazeale on May 18, 2019, with a ferocity that reminded the world why his right hand is one of the most feared weapons in boxing today. With the WBC heavyweight crown on the line for the ninth time, Wilder needed just 137 seconds of the first round to halt the challenger’s ambitions and add yet another brutal knockout to his staggering résumé.

From the first bell, it was clear both men came with intent. Breazeale, tipping the scales at 255 pounds, sought to assert himself early, trying to crowd the champion and land something meaningful. But the leaner, meaner Wilder, weighing in at 223, answered with surgical violence.

The action was briefly halted as referee Harvey Dock broke a clinch midway through the round, but what followed was decisive. As Breazeale retreated, Wilder snapped out a range-finding jab that barely masked what came next—a towering overhand right that detonated on Breazeale’s jaw like a thunderclap. The Californian crumpled flat to the canvas, his limbs splayed, eyes distant.

Dock counted to ten as Breazeale attempted to rise, but the challenger’s efforts fell short. Official time: 2:17 of round one. With that, Wilder retained his green-and-gold strap and pushed his record to a perfect 41-0-1, with 40 wins by knockout.

Controversy had surrounded the build-up. Wilder, never shy with words, made incendiary remarks that drew heavy criticism. Yet, following the carnage, the Tuscaloosa native showed a surprising level of grace, offering respect to Breazeale in a moment of post-fight sportsmanship.

Though the clash was brief, its impact was seismic. It was Wilder’s 20th first-round knockout—a stark reminder that when his right hand lands, it rarely needs a second invitation. In a sport where moments can define legacies, Deontay Wilder once again reminded the world: it only takes one shot. And when he fires it, the lights usually go out.