“I think it’s pretty high. I mean, Abdullah Mason is already a world champion at 22 years old. Some of the best skill set you’ve seen in this weight class,” said Mannix.

Chris also noted that Mason is already highly ranked among the lightweight division’s leading contenders and believes another successful title defense would move him even closer to the biggest fights available at 135 pounds.

“Abdullah Mason is already ranked pretty high in the Ring Magazine rankings. One of the top guys in this weight class right now in the lightweight division,” said Mannix.

Looking ahead, Mannix said Saturday’s main event could serve as another stepping stone toward title unification.

“I think, in a fight like this, can defend his world title and take another step forward to maybe potential unification fights. We know that 135 is getting hotter right now,” said Mannix.

Mason captured the vacant WBO lightweight title by defeating Sam Noakes by a 12-round decision last November, and now returns home for his first title defense against Bell, who stepped into the championship fight after Joe Cordina withdrew due to visa problems. A victory would keep Mason on course for the unification bouts Mannix believes are waiting in one of boxing’s deepest divisions.