The Sharks Await: Cruz, Tank & Foster

The question now is whether Top Rank, the promoters for the 21-year-old Mason (20-0, 17 KOs) will choose to put him in with the sharks in the 135-lb division, like these fighters:

O’Shaquie Foster
Andy Cruz
Floyd Schofield
Gervonta Davis
William Zepeda
Raymond Muratalla

I would add Shakur Stevenson to that mix, but his return to the lightweight division is iffy now that he’s chasing greatness/paydays outside of the weight class.

Top Rank would be taking a risk by allowing Abdullah to fight the top talents at 135, putting him at risk of losing to Cruz, Tank, and others at an early age. His entertaining style of fighting puts him in the firing line for shots.

“This is a door opener to a lot more greatness. So now we’re just going to stay focused and keep improving,” said Abdullah Mason to Sky Sports Boxing.

We saw that in his victory over the heavy puncher Noakes last November. That fight was close, with Mason winning by the scores 115-113, 117-111, and 115-113. He was forced to box Noakes in the second half of the contest due to the punishment he was absorbing from the aggressive knockout artist.

Mason’s Style: Exciting but Dangerous

Mason could be food for experienced fighters like Andy Cruz, Foster, and Zepeda. These are fighters that have been around the game. Although Cruz has fought only six pro fights, his long amateur background in Cuba puts him on par with a professional fighter with a lot of experience.

“I feel like I’m one of the great fighters in my division, and I’m going to keep proving to be one of the best fighters in my division,” said Mason.

“This is a door opener to a lot more greatness. So now we’re just going to stay focused and keep improving.”

Robert Segal has been a key voice at Boxing News 24 for more than a decade, delivering fight news, previews, and analysis with a direct, insider edge. His work highlights champions, contenders, and rising talent from around the world, offering readers a clear understanding of where each fighter stands in the sport’s shifting landscape. Known for his sharp ringside perspective and straightforward reporting style, Robert consistently brings fans closer to the action with knowledgeable, no-nonsense coverage.