Albert Bell Dominates Mark Bernaldez in Lack-Luster Win
Rising super featherweight contender “Prince” Albert Bell (17-0, 5 KO’s) cruised through ten straight rounds to snatch a unanimous decision over Mark “Machete” Bernaldez (20-4, 14 KO’s). The bout served as the co-main event for Jose Pedraza vs Mikkel LesPierre on ESPN.
From the clang of the first bell it was clear that these two fighters were on very different levels.
For the first three rounds, the Toledo, Ohio native leisurely circled the ring, scored on whim with his jab and slipped out of range of most incoming traffic. When the opportunity presented itself, Bell sprinkled single, sporadic heavy punches into his assault.
With the arrival of the forth, Prince began moving a great deal less without sacrificing his elusiveness. He also began throwing harder shots with more consistency. Nevertheless, his jab was still being used far more than any other offensive tool.
For his part, Bernaldez did not appear to be discouraged but was just a bit too slow to capitalize on his aggression.
Then in the later rounds, Bell reverted back to his wide circling, jab-popping ways. Toward the end of an extremely one-sided ninth round, he obviously injured his hand after landing a clean straight right. To his credit, he continued seamlessly with his offensive success through the final round.
He even switch to southpaw at points to accommodate his injured paw.
As could be assumed, when the scorecards were read Bell walked away with a shutout victory.
Prior to this bout, the undefeated prospect apparently agreed to face WBO super featherweight champion Jamel Herring. However, that fight fell through and Bell finds himself hoping to revisit gaining the opportunity for that fight.
As of now, let’s see what comes of the injured right hand.
By: Bakari Simpson
