Abdullah Mason Eyes Another Stoppage

On paper, Noakes represents Mason’s toughest challenge to date. The undefeated British contender brings his own brand of knockout power, with 15 stoppages in 17 wins. Still, Mason isn’t convinced this fight will be a drawn out affair.

“We’re gonna see,” Mason told Sean Zittel on YouTube when asked if Noakes could last more than six rounds. “I don’t think so.”

It’s a bold statement, but one consistent with Mason’s track record. Only two of his 19 professional bouts have gone the distance, and both came early in his career.

Noakes Keeping It Quiet

In contrast to Mason’s confidence, Noakes has remained low key in the build up. The 28 year old has avoided verbal sparring, focusing solely on preparation. While he’s not in the business of trading trash talk, his resume suggests he’ll be just as dangerous once the bell rings.

Clash of Finishers

With a combined 32 knockouts in 36 fights, Mason vs. Noakes shapes up as a meeting between two of the division’s most explosive punchers. Whether it ends in the first half of the fight or somehow goes the distance, the winner will leave Riyadh with not just the WBO title, but also the bragging rights as one of lightweight boxing’s most feared finishers.