Boxing divisional rankings: Did Danny Garcia return to the rankings after KO win?

Danny Garcia's fourth-round stoppage and Chris Colbert's unanimous decision restore momentum but won't immediately change divisional rankings; Andres Cortez's fourth-round KO solidifies his rise. Betting angle: expect value on short-term props — backing Garcia to stop lower-tier foes and Colbert to win on points — but avoid heavy futures on Garcia at 154; look for longer-term upside on rising contender Cortez in title markets.

Garcia and Colbert Bounce Back in Brooklyn

Garcia’s Farewell to the Barclays

Danny Garcia delivered a fourth-round knockout of Danny Gonzalez in what was billed as a farewell night at the Barclays Center. The emphatic finish served as a sharp response after his 2024 stoppage loss and briefly put retirement talk on hold, but the quality of the opponent limits the impact on rankings and long-term title forecasts.

Colbert Regains Form

Chris Colbert earned a unanimous decision over Blas Ezequiel Caro, stamping a clear recovery after consecutive knockout defeats in recent seasons. Colbert looked sharp and composed, outpointing his opponent across the rounds and collecting momentum that could fuel a run back toward contention.

Rankings Roundup and Notable Results

Ranked Fighters: Cortez Stays Hot

Andres Cortez, ranked No. 7 at junior lightweight, recorded a fourth-round stoppage of Derlyn Hernandez-Gerarldo, remaining undefeated and closing in on title contention. He was the only top-ranked fighter to compete over the weekend, and his performance strengthens his case for higher-profile fights.

Weekend Headlines Across Divisions

Several divisions saw action and movement, while many high-profile names stayed in place. Notable outcomes included title defenses and stoppages that will feed into the next rankings shuffle as contenders prove themselves or reassert status.

How Rankings Are Applied

Fighters are slotted into divisions based on recent activity and confirmed weight-class bouts. Those who change divisions are only ranked in the new class after competing there. Inactivity of 12 months without a scheduled fight leads to removal until activity resumes. Positive tests for banned substances result in removal until the boxer returns to competition.

Betting Implications and Market Notes

Short-term prop markets should favor Garcia to stop lower-tier opponents and Colbert to win on points in similar matchups. However, bettors should be cautious on heavy futures backing Garcia at 154 given the opponent’s level; value may lie with ascending, undefeated contenders like Cortez when they start facing higher-caliber opposition. Monitor activity and opponent quality before staking large sums on divisional futures.

Former champion Danny Garcia scored a fourth-round KO win in his final fight in Brooklyn. Here are the latest ESPN rankings in all weight classes.

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