Abdullah Mason stays No. 4 at lightweight after 12th-round TKO

Abdullah Mason kept his place as the fourth-ranked lightweight in ESPN's divisional rankings after stopping his opponent in the final round to defend his title.

Mason rallied late in the bout to secure a 12th-round TKO, per ESPN, preserving both his championship and his position in the 135-pound pecking order. The comeback finish capped a dramatic night for the rising contender.

Mason's late rally secures ranking hold at 135 pounds

The stoppage came as Mason found a second wind in the championship rounds, overwhelming his opponent after a competitive fight. ESPN released its updated divisional rankings following the card, with Mason remaining at No. 4 in the lightweight class.

Mason's next assignment and a potential move up the rankings will depend on how other lightweight contenders fare in upcoming bouts. The division remains one of boxing's deepest, with several unification targets ahead of him.

Reported via:

• ESPN Boxing — Boxing divisional rankings: Abdullah Mason holds firm at No. 4 at lightweight