Abdullah Mason’s first WBO lightweight title defense will proceed on July 4, but with a significant change. Unbeaten Ohioan Albert Bell is stepping in to challenge Mason after former world champion Joe Cordina was denied a visa to enter the United States.
Cordina was forced to withdraw from the Cleveland event, ending his bid to become a three-time, two-weight world champion. He confirmed the news directly, dispelling any rumors of injury. He said: “Just to let everyone know that I’m not going to fight, said Cordina. It’s not injuries, I’ve seen a lot of [reports] saying injuries, but there’s no injuries. I’ve had a great camp. I was meant to fly over this week.”
The issue stemmed from an appointment at the US Embassy in London. Despite providing what he felt was sufficient documentation, the former champion was refused entry. The decision leaves Cordina without his shot at American glory.
With Cordina out, the opportunity falls to Albert Bell, 28-0 (9 KOs). The Toledo native accepts the fight on short notice, shifting from his preparation for an IBF lightweight title eliminator against Andy Cruz on July 18. This is Bell’s first world title opportunity. The matchup creates an all-Ohio clash, with Bell challenging Cleveland’s own Abdullah Mason, 20-0 (17 KOs), who is making his first title defense in front of his hometown crowd. Bell’s move leaves Cruz without an opponent, and a search for a replacement is reportedly underway.
