CLEVELAND, Ohio -- Abdullah Mason returned home to Cleveland on Monday, landing at Hopkins Airport after earning the WBO Lightweight World Championship in Saudi Arabia and cementing his place as boxing’s youngest active male world champion.

The 21-year-old undefeated fighter bested Great Britain’s Sam Noakes by unanimous decision on Nov. 22 in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, winning the vacant WBO title in an intense, action-packed bout.

Mason’s victory marks Cleveland’s first boxing world championship since Mickey Bey captured the IBF lightweight crown in 2014.

Mason entered the ring with a 20-0 record and 17 knockouts. He faced Noakes (17-1, 15 KOs) in a fight that showcased the young champion’s skills against a formidable opponent.

“I’m proud to represent Cleveland,” Mason said to the media

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