The veteran promoter says Mason has the discipline and ability to become one of boxing’s biggest stars as the WBO lightweight champion prepares for his first title defense

Bob Arum believes Abdullah Mason has the talent to follow the path of Sugar Ray Leonard, making the comparison before the WBO lightweight champion defends his title against Albert Bell on July 4 in Cleveland. The Hall of Fame promoter says Mason’s discipline is as impressive as his ability inside the ring.

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Arum said he believes the 22-year-old has both the talent and discipline to reach the highest level in the sport.

“It looks like he’ll be one of the major stars in boxing. He’s so young. He’s won a world title, but I think the sky’s the limit,” said Top Rank promoter Arum to Fighthype.

“He comes from a very good family, and he’s a disciplined kid, so I’m not going to worry about him going off and doing some crazy s**t.

“If he continues on the trajectory [he’s on], he can be the next Sugar Ray Leonard.”

Mason improved to 20-0 with 17 knockouts when he outpointed Sam Noakes to win the vacant WBO lightweight title last November, making him boxing’s youngest active male world champion. His first defense was originally scheduled to come against former world champion Joe Cordina before visa issues forced a change in opponent.

Bell stepped in to create an all-Ohio title fight between two unbeaten fighters who are already familiar with one another from previous sparring sessions.

A victory over Bell would strengthen Arum’s belief that Mason is on the path toward becoming one of boxing’s biggest stars.