Fighting in Photos – Abdullah Mason stops Albert Bell in first title defense

CLEVELAND – To have your first title defense in your hometown is one thing, but to go up against a replacement opponent can put even more pressure on you. Abdullah Mason dealt with that pressure and got the result that the fans at the Wolstein Center were looking for.

After scoring two knockdowns in the 12th round, Mason defeated Albert Bell by technical knockout to retain the WBO lightweight title. The Cleveland native now has 18 knockouts in 21 overall wins. Bell suffered the first loss of his professional career.

Both fighters had their moments in the first few rounds as they landed solid punches, with Mason going to the body and Bell connecting with counters. A clash of heads in the second round caused a cut above Mason’s left eye but it did not deter him from carrying out his plan. He started to walk down Bell and continue his attack to the body.

Bell started to wear down after the ninth round, and in the final round Mason landed a quick series of punches in the first ten seconds to put Bell to the canvas. After a standing 8 count was given Mason went back on the attack, and landed a left hand while Bell was on the ropes to score a second knockdown. Referee Marc Nelson stopped the fight with 2:15 left in the round.

Soon after the bout was over, Mason described what his mentality was going into the 12th round.

“We had a game plan,” Mason said. “We were going to work the body. Then they told me I was behind on the cards, so I stepped it up and finished the fight.”

Mason went into the fight with a few weeks to prepare for Bell, as Bell stepped in for Joe Cordina who had to withdraw due to visa issues. Mason had a short time to adjust but he was able to get the win.

“I want to thank Albert for stepping in. He’s a great opponent. I knew it was going to be a great fight.”