Joe Cordina has moved into prime position for a second world title opportunity after jumping to the top of the WBO’s lightweight rankings. The former champion surged from No. 6 to No. 1 following his unanimous decision victory over Gabriel Flores Jr. on December 13.
The latest WBO ratings update reflects Cordina’s rise after defeating the previously fourth-ranked Flores, which was Cordina’s second appearance at lightweight since moving up from junior lightweight. He made the jump after losing his IBF title in May 2024, when he suffered a stoppage defeat to Anthony Cacace, and then spent nearly 14 months out of the ring before returning this year.
Cordina resumed his career in July with a wide decision win over Jaret Gonzalez Quiroz and has now put together a two-fight winning streak at lightweight, improving his record to 19-1 (9 KOs).
The current WBO lightweight champion is Abdullah Mason, who claimed the vacant belt in November with a decision victory over Sam Noakes and with Cordina now ranked No. 1, now a potential title shot at 135 pounds appears firmly within reach.
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