The publication updated its top 10 at 135 pounds on Sunday, moving Mason up to #4 after his thrilling 12th-round stoppage of Bell in Cleveland. The 22-year-old now sits ahead of Andy Cruz, while William Zepeda remains one spot above him at #3.
The rankings are led by Shakur Stevenson at #1, followed by Raymond Muratalla and Zepeda. The move follows Mason’s 12th-round stoppage of Albert Bell in his first WBO lightweight title defense.
The move sparked debate among fans on X, with some arguing Mason deserved to be ranked ahead of Zepeda following his latest victory.
However, Mason’s recent performances make Ring Magazine’s decision to keep Zepeda at #3 understandable. While Mason has shown grit and championship resolve, he has also been pushed hard in his last two outings. He was extended the full 12 rounds by Sam Noakes last November before earning a unanimous decision, then had to rally for a dramatic final-round stoppage after replacement opponent Albert Bell gave him major problems.
Those performances also fit a broader pattern. In 2024, Mason was dropped twice by Yohan Vasquez after being caught while throwing uppercuts before recovering to score a second-round knockout.
Some fans on X believe Mason has already done enough to overtake Zepeda, but Ring Magazine’s rankings suggest otherwise. Given Mason’s competitive fights with Noakes and Bell, along with the defensive lapses against Vasquez, keeping him at #4 appears justified. If he continues winning against top-level opposition, another climb up the rankings will likely come soon enough.
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