Sam Noakes says his physical power will be the decisive factor when he faces rising star Abdullah Mason for the vacant WBO lightweight title on Saturday in Saudi Arabia. The unbeaten 28-year-old from Kent enters the fight at 17-0, bringing far more late-round experience than his 21-year-old opponent.
Mason, a slick southpaw from Ohio with a 19-0 record, has quickly become one of the sport’s brightest prospects. Earlier this week, he was ranked No. 6 on ESPN’s Top 25 Under 25 list, and his speed and technical polish have made him a favorite among young American contenders. Still, Mason has yet to fight beyond six rounds as a professional.
Noakes believes that difference in physical maturity and endurance will matter. Having already gone the full 12 rounds twice, he expects the championship distance to play heavily in his favor as the fight progresses. “My physicality will come into play in the later rounds,” Noakes said, acknowledging Mason’s talent but insisting the younger fighter has never faced a breakdown-style attack like his.
While Noakes respects Mason’s skills and noted the American’s recovery from a knockdown in last year’s win over Yoan Vasquez, he maintains that Saturday night will belong to him. “There’s only going to be one winner, and it won’t be him,” he said.
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