A lot can change in a year. Ask Abdullah Mason.

When the calendar turned to 2025, Mason (19-0, 17 KOs) was viewed as a prospect. When 2026 comes, he expects to be viewed in a different light.

“I started this year as boxing’s top prospect,” Mason told Max Kellerman on Inside The Ring on DAZN this week, “and I believe I’ll finish off this year as boxing’s youngest world champion.”

The 21-year-old will get his first crack at a world title when he takes on Sam Noakes (17-0, 15 KOs) on November 22 for the vacant WBO lightweight title at ANB Arena in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.

Although he’s never fought at the elite level, Mason is a heavy favorite according to some oddsmakers (minus-600). That stems from the style and substance he’s displayed as he stopped Manuel Jaimes, Carlos Ornelas and Jeremia Nakathila.

Noakes, who hasn’t fought a who’s who of opponents, being undefeated with a high ranking makes him arguably Mason’s stiffest competition.

Mason isn’t convinced that he’ll be pushed to his limit. As for what his future entails should he get the win, the Cleveland, Ohio, native believes fame and fortune are at his fingertips.

“It’s exciting for me,” he said. “I’m taking it serious and I’m focused. A world championship is a huge step up. Once I do this, it kinda solidifies me as one of boxing’s biggest up-and-coming names.”