Is Abdullah Mason America's next top fighter after memorable performance on DAZN/TNT debut?

With the major broadcasters coming together to give fighters a huge platform to demonstrate their skills, Mason was the first to grab the opportunity as he produced a dramatic turnaround to retain his WBO lightweight belt with a last round stoppage against late substitute, Albert Bell. 

Mason was set to face Joe Cordina before the Welshman experienced visa issues entering America, but he was still heavily favoured to defeat Bell who began the fight a significant underdog after stepping in at short notice. 

In the early sessions, Bell looked like his preparations had been ideal as built up a commanding lead against Mason, but the second half of the fight swung drastically in Mason’s favour who was roared by a boisterous Cleavland crowd whose enthusiasm never waned once during a terrific encounter. 

With the outcome still in doubt, Mason went all out in round 12 and after dropping Bell early in the round, a follow up attack saw him on the floor before the referee stepped in. The stoppage was way too soon, but the result wouldn't have been impacted, and it allowed Mason to celebrate wildly in front of his home supporters. 

In the last couple of years, Mason, such a talented fighter, has played his part in some terrific fights, and his ability to fight head on could be the reason why he becomes a major draw for Top Rank and DAZN, and ultimately provide American boxing with a shot in the arm. 

Other elite fighters exist such as Devin Haney and Shakur Stevenson, but where those superb technicians fight to win without really risking their defence, the proper way of course, Mason’s vulnerabilities have made him a much talked about attraction. 

Mason always delivers action

His up and down thriller with Yohan Vazquez in 2024 saw him climb off the canvas twice in the opening stanza to win in round two. He followed that up by becoming world champion the following year in a fight of the year contender against Sam Noakes, and now there’s his win over Bell which left everyone extremely satisfied both inside the arena and watching on TV. 

Cleveland has proved it will come out to cheer on their fighting hero and with numerous Mason family members and Tiger Johnson also delivering for the Ohio city, Top Rank know they have a potential hot city on their hands with Mason spearheading the movement. 

Mason ticked several boxes on Saturday night. Fans came through the door, a big television audience witnessed a superb fight, and he picked up the win to keep his world title. At 22, Mason has so much time on his side, but already possessing a stunning highlight reel, his time could be now and that can only be good for a country crying out for new hopes to get attached to. 

Joshua vs. Prenga - exclusively on DAZN PPV

Watch Anthony Joshua's hugely anticipated return to the ring versus Kristian Prenga on Saturday, July 25 only on DAZN PPV. Buy as a one-off PPV or included, along with Itauma vs. Hrgovic and Canelo vs. Mbilli PPVs, with a DAZN Ultimate Tier subscription.

For more information, pricing and to buy, click here .