Diego Pacheco will defend his USWBC and WBO International Super-Middleweight titles against Steven Nelson at The Chelsea at The Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas Saturday, January 25, live worldwide on DAZN – with Cuban Olympic star Andy Cruz taking on Omar Salcido and Ernesto Mercado facing Jose Pedraza on his Matchroom debut.

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Pacheco (22-0 18 KOs) is closing in on World title action as the #1 ranked contender with the WBO and sitting pretty at #3 in the WBC and #4 with the IBF. The LA star headlines for the sixth show in a row and for the second time in Las Vegas, where he saw off Shawn McCalman on points in April, before returning to his home turf in August to record his 18th win inside the distance with a sickening body shot KO win over Maciej Sulecki – performances that further bolstered his standing as one of the hottest talents in the game, which was confirmed by ESPN ranking Pacheco #2 in their list of the top fighters under 25, second only to pound-for-pound star and stablemate Jesse ‘Bam’ Rodriguez.

Nelson (20-0 16 KOs) has been hunting a big fight and now gets the chance to derail Pacheco’s rise to the top and move himself into the great position that his young foe has reached. The 36 year old last tasted action in August in Los Angeles with a fifth-round stoppage win over Marcos Rodriguez on the undercard of his good friend and fellow Omaha fighter, Terence Crawford.

“I’m very excited to be back in the ring early 2025 against another undefeated opponent –the DP show continues,” said Pacheco.

“This is the type of fight I been wanting so I can show the world who I am,” said Nelson.

Like Pacheco, Cruz and Mercado are targeting World title action in 2025, and they can lay down an early marker to land the big fights in crunch clashes against Salcido and Pedraza respectively.

Cruz (4-0 2 KOs) is ranked #4 with the WBA and the IBF at 135lbs and will be knocking on the door for a World title shot even louder if he can claim a fifth win in the pro ranks in Sin City. The 2020 Olympic gold medal man picked up a pair of impressive wins in 2024, first locking out Brayan Zamarripa over ten rounds in Orlando in February and then recording his second win inside the distance with a seventh-round stoppage of Antonio Moran in Los Angeles in August.

The fifth man to try to halt Cruz’s progress is Mexican Salcido (20-1 14 KOs). Salcido will enter the bout full of confidence after stopping Chris Colbert in the ninth round of their clash in Florida in October, and the 24 year old can add an even more impressive scalp to his resume in the shape of Cruz.

“January 25 is another opportunity for me to showcase my talent to the world and shine,” said Cruz. “This is another test on my journey to becoming a World champion where all the effort and dedication will be put to the test. All my training and sacrifice has brought me here. When I enter the ring, I am not only fighting my opponent. I am challenging my own limits as I aim for greatness.”

“First and foremost, I would like to thank God, Matchroom and my team for this great opportunity,” said Salcido. “I am working hard, camp is going great, I am preparing mentally and physically for a war.

“Andy Cruz is a talented fighter; however, I am up for the challenge. I know the importance of this fight, a win over Cruz will be huge and will open many great opportunities for me. I dedicate this fight to my family and all the boxing fans that will be watching on DAZN.”

Mercado (16-0 15 KOs) gets a second chance to make his Matchroom debut in Las Vegas, as his planned bow under Eddie Hearn in Philadelphia was axed after his opponent blew the weight. ‘Tito’ will be eager to make up for lost time, and after landing three KO wins from three fights in 2024, the 23 year old will look to kick off his 2025 in style against the Puerto Rican.

Former two-weight World ruler Pedraza (29-6-1 14 KOs) boasts an enviable CV littered with great names, and the 35 year old will be looking to use all that experience to derail Mercado’s progress. ‘Sniper’ held the IBF Super-Featherweight title from 2015 to 2017 and the WBO Lightweight crown in 2018 and having shared the ring with modern greats like Vasiliy Lomachenko and Gervonta Davis, Pedraza will be out to prove he still has ambitions at the very top level.

“I’m excited to get back in the ring and even more now that I’m facing former world champion Jose Pedraza on January 25 in Las Vegas,” said Mercado. “Don’t miss it because I’m going to knock his bald-headed ass out in a way you have never seen before!”

“I’m really happy to return to what I’m passionate about: boxing,” said Pedraza. “I’m grateful for this opportunity that Matchroom have given me to face a young, top-quality fighter. I’ll show the world that I’m at a stage where there’s still a lot of fight in me to become a world champion once again.

“I’ve never turned down any opponent. All of them have been elite fighters and this time will not be the exception. Ernesto has the same hunger I had at his age but it’s the same for both of us because this fight can decide his future. If he beats me, he’ll move on and chase his dream, but I also have that hunger in me. I have to win to get that shot to become a three-weight world champion.

“On 25 January in Las Vegas the fans will enjoy a fight where a young fighter looks to beat me, a fighter with a great résumé but he will fail. Mercado will have to wait a bit longer and I still remember the message he sent to me. I’ll use it as a great source of motivation and let him know that we were made in Puerto Rico.”

“This is a hugely important night for three of our World champions in waiting,” said Hearn. “Diego and Andy are right on the cusp of World title action, and Tito wants all the big names at 140lbs and wants to move quickly – so all three of them have to be on point against hungry and dangerous opponents on January 25.”

Further additions to the undercard will be announced soon.

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Raymond ‘Savage’ Ford will return to action up at Super-Featherweight when he takes on Orlando Gonzalez at Wells Fargo Center in Philadelphia on Saturday November 9, live worldwide on DAZN – with Ford leading the undercard that also features Light-Heavyweight talent Khalil ‘Big Steppa’ Coe taking on Manuel Gallegos and Ernesto ‘Tito’ Mercado making his Matchroom debut, all in support of the blockbuster World championship double-header as hometown hero Jaron ‘Boots’ Ennis headlines at Wells Fargo Center once again, defending his IBF World Welterweight title against Karen Chukhadzhian and Jesse ‘Bam’ Rodriguez defends his WBC and Ring Magazine World Super-Flyweight titles against Pedro Guevara.
 

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Ford (15-1-1 8 KOs) makes the move to 130lbs and does so with ambitions of becoming a two-weight World ruler. The Camden ace landed the WBA World title at 126lbs in March with a stunning last-gasp KO win over Otabek Kholmatov in upstate New York and was edged out in his first defense via split decision against Nick Ball in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia in June.

The 25 year old will be looking to put his new division on notice with a stand-out performance in Philadelphia where the WBA Continental North American title will be on the line over ten rounds, but ‘Savage’ faces a Puerto Rican in fine form in Gonzalez (23-2 12 KOs). Wins over the distance against Ramiro Cesena and Jose Casteneda look good on the 29 year old’s CV, and he’ll be looking to ruin Ford’s introduction to the division.

“All the champs at 130lbs better watch out because I’m coming for all of those straps,” said Ford. “I don’t have to do a whole lot of talking, people know what I can do when I’m at the top of my game. Right now, I’m in Colorado working hard and people are going to see the end result on November 9. Two-weight World champ coming soon, no doubt!

“This is my first fight so close to home since I made my pro debut so it’s great to be back there and I know there’s a lot of people going to come out and support.”

“I’d like to thank Probox, Garry, Chris and Daniel, and Matchroom for the opportunity,” said Gonzalez. “Ray Ford is a World-level fighter and I’m going to show I’m on his level and beyond. It’s going to be a great fight.”

Coe (9-0-1 7 KOs) will be itching to get back to the city of brotherly love, where he shone on the undercard of Boots’ win over David Avanesyan in July. ‘Big Steppa’ had the crowd on their feet as he pummeled Kwame Ritter inside two rounds of their clash for the vacant USWBC Light-Heavyweight title, a belt he puts on the line for the first time and in search of a fifth straight win inside the distance.

Standing in his way is Gallegos (20-2-1 17 KOs) the Mexican that returns to action for the first time since tackling another rising star from Eddie Hearn’s stateside stable, when he met Diego Pacheco in July 2023, and now moving up from 168lbs to look to halt Coe’s rise.

“November 9, Philly stand-up,” said Coe. “We back. Big Steppa – coming through. Fighting in Philly is like being home for me, and having the opportunity to put on another show in front of all my family and friends is extra special and I am ready to put on another spectacular performance.

“I believe that there is no better prospect in boxing than me, and on November 9, Manuel Gallegos is about to find that out the hard way.”

“My name is Manuel Gallegos, ‘el Meño’, and I’m ready for my next fight against Khalil Coe,” said Gallegos. “I’m hugely motivated and can’t wait to fight in this weight division where I feel great.”

Mercado (16-0 15 KOs) penned a deal with Matchroom after Hearn fought off fierce competition for his signature, and the 22 year old will be looking to continue his brilliant 2024 with a fourth win inside the distance. ‘Tito’ will be in action over ten rounds at Super-Lightweight, against an opponent to be named soon.

Austin Williams returns to the ring over eight rounds at 160lbs, eager to get back to winning ways. Williams (16-1 11 KOs) gamely battled Hamzah Sheeraz for the WBC Silver title in the Matchroom vs. Queensberry 5 vs. 5 in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia in June, taking plenty from his brave performance against the powerful Brit.

Dennis Thompson (2–0 1 KO) and Ismail Muhammad (5-0 3 KOs) both recorded points wins on the undercard of Ennis’ win over David Avanesyan in July in Philadelphia, and the Boots Promotions duo are back again under their mentor over four rounds at Super-Flyweight and six rounds at Welterweight respectively, and there’s a debut on the card for the hotly-touted Zaquin Moses, the cousin of pound-for-pound superstar Shakur Stevenson, stepping through the ropes for the first time over four rounds at Super-Featherweight.

“This is going to be some night in Philadelphia,” said Hearn. “Boots and Bam are two of the very best that there is, and we have a brilliant supporting cast before those two pound-for-pound stars strut their stuff.

“Ray is back and is ready to meet any champion at 130lbs to become a two-weight king, while Khalil is like a runaway train right now, he’s going to be knocking very loudly on the door of the contenders at Light-Heavyweight.

“Ammo showed incredible guts and heart against Hamzah, and he will have learned so much from that night to go again in his career, and I cannot wait to let Tito off the leash and showcase his immense talent on the big stage. It’s another big night for Dennis and Ismail fighting for Boots Promotions, and watch out for Zaquin making his pro debut, there’s a massive buzz around this young man.”

DETROIT – July 12, 2024 – The untelevised undercard has been announced for the upcoming “BIG TIME BOXING USA: SHIELDS VS. JOANISSE,” event on Saturday, July 27, at Little Caesars Arena in Detroit, and several local and national prospects will see action in competitive fights.

Presented by Salita Promotions and 313 Presents, and broadcast live on premier sports-streaming platform DAZN, “BIG TIME BOXING USA: SHIELDS VS. JOANISSE” features Undisputed Middleweight World Champion Claressa “GWOAT” Shields’ historic challenge for the WBC Women’s Heavyweight World Championship against Vanessa Lepage-Joanisse, an intriguing 10-round co-feature pitting world-ranked super lightweight Michel “La Zarza Ali” Rivera against 140-pound contender Hugo Alberto “Nato” Roldan and power-punching former world-title challenger Shohjahon “Descendant of Tamerlane” Ergashev taking on Julian “The Quiet Storm” Smith in a 10-round super lightweight bout.

Headlining the un-televised portion of the night will be a 10-round super lightweight battle between undefeated knockout artist Ernesto “Tito” Mercado (15-0, 14 KOs) of Pomona, CA, and Hector Edgardo “Pajarito” Sarmiento (21-2, 14 KOs) from Cordoba, Argentina.

A fan-friendly fighter, Mercado is an aggressive, yet poised, boxer-puncher who was voted BoxingScene.com’s 2023 Prospect of the Year. Comparing his mindset to the (the late) former champion Edwin Valero, Mercado says he’s an old-school fighter who is not interested in looking pretty and wants to “take his opponents’ heads off.”

In his three-year professional career, Pomona, California’s Mercado won the North American Boxing Association USA Super Lightweight Championship in 2022 and successfully defended it twice and, in mid-2024, already has three victories under his belt this year.

Mercado stopped then 19-6-2 Cristian Bielma in February and was last seen taking out Colombian veteran Deiner Berrio (then 22-4-1) in April.

“I know he has experience,” said Mercado of upcoming opponent Sarmiento. “In his last fight, he went the distance with Denys Berinchyk from Ukraine, who is now a world champ at 135 pounds after beating Emanuel Navarrete. So, you know he’s a tough guy. He’ll pressure me to fight, and he throws very unorthodox punches, which will make it hard to counter him. I will have to be mindful and defensively sharp.”

22-year-old Mercado says he feels he’s closing in on a world-title shot and is looking forward to the exposure fighting in front of so many fans in Detroit can bring.

“I feel like I’m ready to fight for a world title right now. With the experience I’ve been getting, it shouldn’t be too long. I’m also very excited to fight in front of such a big audience. Getting the recognition of being in these big fights motivates me in the gym. I can’t wait and I hope to make a lot of new fans that night.”

In an eight-round women’s super-lightweight test, WBO #6 and IBF #4 ranked Super Lightweight Samantha Worthington (8-0, 6 KOs) will put her undefeated record on the line against Budapest, Hungary’s Edina Kiss (16-20, 9 KOs).

From Folsom, California, via Lexington, Kentucky, Worthington, the first fighter to ever sign with Claressa Shields’ T-Rex Promotions, finished her impressive amateur career with 36 wins (14 losses), including five national championships, a bronze at the Youth World Championships, and a fifth-place finish at the Olympic Trials for the 2016 Olympics. Thus far as a pro, Worthington has gone undefeated at 8-0, 6 KOs and was last seen winning her Universal Boxing Organization Super Lightweight Championship by scoring a near-shutout unanimous decision over Yazmin Rivas in front of her home-state fans in Kentucky last January.

“I am so grateful for this opportunity!” said Worthington. “Claressa has believed in me since the amateurs, so it is extremely special to have her backing me now in the pros. And I know that being able to fight on this stage is going to put the world on notice and let the super lightweight division know I’m here to dominate! Edina Kiss is a veteran of the sport and I’m so excited to display my skills against someone who has shared the ring with some of the greats! Training has been going great and I’m ready to show everyone that I deserve to be here.”

In a six-round super welterweight battle, Dearborn Heights, Michigan’s Husam “Lion Heart” Al Mashhadi (9-1, 8 KOs) will take on Buenos Aires, Argentina’s Bruno Leonardo Romay (22-13, 19 KOs). Al Mashhadi is a 21-year-old southpaw with an entertaining fighting style who was last seen taking out 58-fight Colombian trialhorse Daulis Prescott in one round at Wayne State Fieldhouse, Detroit in March of last year.

“I feel really blessed to get this opportunity in my hometown at Little Caesars Arena. It’s a big deal and I’m looking forward to it,” said Al Mashhadi. “I know my opponent is from Argentina and a veteran with a lot of fights. He’s coming to fight and give me a run for my money, so I’m training hard to ready for him. This will be the first southpaw I fight in the pros, so I’m sparring Ardreal Holmes and a lot of other tough southpaws to get ready.”

In a six-round featherweight showdown, Pontiac, Michigan’s Cameran “The Problem” Pankey (9-1, 4 KOs) will take on Mooresville, North Carolina’s Shaileik Paisley (4-4, 3 KOs).

Pankey is a 25-year-old slugger who was last seen putting on the fight of the night in his first career loss against Mexico’s Juan Hernandez Martinez via razor-thin six-round decision at Wayne State Fieldhouse, Detroit in February of last year.

“Training is going great,” said Pankey. “I’m hitting harder than ever before and I’m in tip-top shape. I could go 12 rounds today. I know this opponent has never been stopped, but I feel I will be the first to do it.”

Also featured that night will be an eight-round female heavyweight fight between Houston, Texas’ undefeated Danielle Perkins (4-0, 2 KOs) and Scotland’s Christianne Fahey (2-1, 2 KOs), as well as an exciting all-Detroit six-round super welterweight scrap between once-beaten Gordie Russ II (6-1, 6 KOs) and once-beaten Josiah Shackleford (3-1, 2 KOs).

“We have a stacked undercard featuring top local, national, and international talent,” said event promoter, Dmitriy Salita. “All eyes will be on Detroit at Little Caesars Arena on July 27, when some of the b?est boxers in the world look to take the next important step in their careers. Our goal is to be inclusive and work with everyone to give boxing fans the most exciting events, and this card is a testament to that mission statement.”

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About Salita Promotions

Salita Promotions was founded in 2010 by Dmitriy Salita, a professional boxer and world-title challenger who saw the need for a promotional entity to feature boxing’s best young prospects and established contenders in North America and around the world. Viewers watching fighters on worldwide television networks including SHOWTIME, HBO, ESPN, Spike TV, Universal Sports Network, UFC Fight Pass, DAZN, ESPN+ and MSG have enjoyed Salita Promotions fight action in recent years. We pride ourselves on offering our fighters opportunities inside and outside the ring. Salita Promotions looks forward to continuing to grow and serve the needs of fight fans around the globe.

Check the Salita Promotions YOUTUBE CHANNEL for regular updates of the modern world’s greatest fighters, contenders and prospects in action. 

About 313 Presents

313 Presents is Detroit’s premier live entertainment company. Inspired by the soul of Detroit, 313 Presents promotes and produces concerts, theatrical productions, sporting events and family shows at six world-class venues across southeast Michigan including Little Caesars Arena, the historic Fox Theatre featuring Proud Partner Comerica Bank, Comerica Park, Pine Knob Music Theatre Presented by Proud Partners United Wholesale Mortgage, Trinity Health and Ally, Meadow Brook Amphitheatre Presented by Proud Partner Oakland University Credit Union and Michigan Lottery Amphitheatre. Headquartered in The District Detroit, 313 Presents is a joint venture between Ilitch Sports + Entertainment and Pistons Sports & Entertainment. For additional information, visit 313Presents.com.

About DAZN Group 

DAZN is a leading digital sports platform in Italy, Spain, Germany, Belgium, Portugal, Japan, Canada, US and the UK. Its wide range of exclusive content includes top-flight football from the world’s most popular competitions – Bundesliga, English Premier League, J.League, LaLiga, Serie A, and the UEFA Champions League, in addition to the biggest sports from around the world – Formula 1, NFL, NBA, MotoGP and the UFC.  

DAZN is the NFL’s global partner and, from the 2023 season, will be the only place for fans around the world to watch every NFL match through the NFL Game Pass International add-on subscription. DAZN is a global home for boxing and combat sports through its partnerships with Matchroom Boxing the Professional Fighters League, and a global home for Women’s Football with UEFA Women’s Champions League and Finetwork Liga F. DAZN is adding more and more sport to its platform to create a destination for sports fans. 

DAZN is reimagining the way people enjoy sport. With a single, frictionless platform, sports fans can watch, bet, play, share, socialize, and buy tickets, NFTs and merchandise. Live and on-demand sports content, anywhere, in any language, on any device – only on DAZN. 

DAZN is available on most connected devices including smart TVs, set-top boxes, streaming sticks, smartphones, tablets, PCs and game consoles, ensuring that fans have access to ground-breaking rights catalogue and slate of incredible content. In the UK and globally, DAZN can be accessed on Samsung, LG, Sony and Panasonic Smart TVs and on Games Consoles including Playstation and Xbox. Subscribers also have access to DAZN on their Amazon Fire TV, Amazon Fire TV Stick, Google Chromecast and Apple TV and can find the app on their iPhone, iPad, and android mobile devices. DAZN is available as an Amazon Channel on Amazon Prime TV and can be viewed on Channel 429 on Sky in the UK and Ireland.    

DAZN is a global, privately-owned company with employees in over 25 countries. For more information on DAZN, our products, people, and performance, visit?www.dazngroup.com. 

Ernesto Mercado and Deiner Berrio will face each other this Saturday at the Red Owl Boxing Arena in Houston for the World Boxing Association (WBA) Continental North America Gold super lightweight title. 

The bout will be the main event of the evening and will feature two top-level boxers facing each other in search of the regional belt of the pioneer organization. 

Mercado, born in the United States, is 22 years old and has had an impressive start to his professional career in which he is undefeated. “Tito”, as the local fighter is nicknamed, has just defeated Cristian Bielma by knockout on February 24 and now he will face this challenge for a regional title. 

Berrio, a Colombian who recently arrived in the United States, is 33 years old and will be going to his third fight in this country after having made almost his entire career in Colombia and having several fights in Russia. The man from Santiago de Tolu has lost two fights in a row but has looked good and now wants to reverse this situation and take the crown. 

Mercado has a record of 14 wins, no losses and 13 knockouts, while Berrio has 22 wins, 4 losses, 1 draw and 13 knockouts.

Ontario, CA (September 21, 2023) Undefeated Top Junior Welterweight Prospect Tito Mercado, (12-0, 11 KOs), of Pomona, CA returns to battle on Saturday, November 11 against Former World Title Challenger Jeremia Nakathila, (23-3-0, 19 KOs) of Windhoek, Namibia in the ten-round main event at the Lumcolor – Phoenix Center in Ontario, CA.

Presented by Fight City Promotions, tickets starting at $75 can be purchased via email at [email protected]. The Lumcolor – Phoenix Center is located at 11255 Central Ave., Ontario, CA 91782. Doors will open on the night of the event at 4:00 p.m. PT with the first bell at 6:00 p.m. PT. The event will be broadcast on the Fight City Promotions’ YouTube Channel.

“These are the types of fights I want,” said the 21-year-old promotional free agent Mercado. “Nakathila has fought numerous world class fighters and is the perfect challenge for me.”

“Ontario has become my second home and I love the huge amount of support I get from the fans. I’ve already started training and can’t wait to show that I’m ready right now to face any top 140lb. fighter in the world.”

Mercado is coming off a show-stopping first round knockout of veteran Carlos Manuel Portillo on August 26, 2023. He also holds impressive stoppage victories over former world title challengers Hank Lundy and Jayson Velez.

Nakathila knocked out former world champion Miguel Berchelt in the sixth round on March 22, 2022. He also has engaged in hotly contested battles against current Pound-for-Pound fighter Shakur Stevenson, Zoltan Kovacs and Raymond Muratalla.

Social Media

Instagram: @realtitomercado

Facebook: @tito.mercado

Los Angeles, CA (August 29, 2023) Boxing’s Top International Prospect, Tito Mercado, (12-0, 11 KOs), of Pomona, CA scored a devastating first-round knockout of Carlos Manuel Portillo, (23-5, 17 KOs), of Asuncion, Paraguay, on Saturday night in front of a huge crowd at the Lumcolor ‘Phoenix Center’ in Ontario, CA.

Using a battering jab, Mercado dropped Portillo with a tremendous left hook early in the opening stanza. Sending Portillo to the canvas again with a huge right hand to the head, Mercado was declared the winner by referee Thomas Taylor at 1:36 of the first round. The junior welterweight clash was scheduled for ten rounds.

“We practiced counter punching in the gym and it worked out very well,” said the victorious Mercado. “I want to fight the top guys; Arnold Barboza or Jose Ramirez. I’m more than willing to fight William Zepeda right now. If he’s interested I’m ready to fight him.”

Continued the 21-year-old, “It feels great to fight back at home and have the support of my family and fans. I always want to give the fans who bought a ticket a great show.”

The event was promoted by Fight City Promotions and broadcast live on their YouTube channel.

News of Mercado’s next fight will be announced shortly.

Social Media

Instagram: @realtitomercado

Facebook: @tito.mercado

Los Angeles, CA (August 14, 2023) Boxing’s Top International Prospect, Tito Mercado, (11-0, 10 KOs), of Pomona, CA faces battle tested veteran Carlos Manuel Portillo,

(23-4, 17 KOs), of Asuncion, Paraguay, on Saturday, August 26 at the Lumcolor ‘Phoenix Center’  in Ontario, CA.

Promoted by Fight City Promotions and broadcast live on their YouTube channel, the scheduled ten-round main event will be fought in the junior welterweight division. The Lumcolor ‘Phoenix Center’ is located 11255 Central Ave., Building 2, Ontario, CA 91762.

The 21-year-old Mercado, fighting out of Pomona, CA, returns home following a dominant ten-round decision victory over perennial contender Xolisani Ndongeni on July 8, 2023 in Managua, Nicaragua. Prior to the win over Ndongeni, the promotional free agent had knocked out all ten of his opponents since turning professional in July 2021.

“I’m very excited to be fighting in Ontario for the fourth time, the local support I’ve received at my fights has been overwhelming,” said the lauded Mercado. “As I’ve proved and will continue to do so, I’m ready for any top name, contender or world champion in the junior welterweight division.”

Portillo is facing off against Mercado following an eight-round decision victory over Juan Marcos Rodriguez Urtiz on November 25, 2022 in Merida, Yucatan, Mexico.

Social Media

Instagram: @realtitomercado

Facebook: @tito.mercado

Los Angeles, CA (June 26, 2023) Boxing’s Top International Prospect, Tito Mercado, (10-0, 10 KOs), will return to battle on Saturday, July 8 against battle-tested, South African veteran Xolisani Ndongeni, (31-2, 18 KOs), in a scheduled ten-round super lightweight clash from Managua, Nicaragua.

The 21-year-old Mercado, fighting out of Pomona, CA, is hitting the ring following a destructive first round knockout of world title challenger Hank Lundy on April 15, 2023 witnessed by a huge crowd in Ontario, CA.

The lauded Mercado, a promotional free agent, has been on a streak of show stopping-knockouts since turning professional two years ago following an acclaimed amateur career. Five of his knockouts have come in the first round.

Said the 5’10” Mercado about the upcoming fight and his schedule, “This is a great opportunity for me to fight in my father’s homeland, Nicaragua. Ndongeni has only lost twice, once by decision to Devin Haney. I’m staying busy but also want to fight the best in the 140lb. division, I’m ready for a top ten fighter at super welterweight right now.”

The 33-year-old Ndongeni faces off against Mercado riding a five-bout winning streak, last seeing action with a seventh-round knockout of Apinun Khongsong on November 17 in Durban, South Africa.

The fight on July 8 will be broadcast on Canal 6 in Nicaragua and can be streamed here.

POMONA, CA (February 3, 2023) – Undefeated NABA super lightweight champion, Ernesto “Tito” Mercado (8-0, 8 KOs), has a new opponent for this Saturday, February 4, as he will now face Jose Angulo (14-4, 7 KOs), of Ecuador. The fight will still take place at the LumColor Center in Ontario, CA, with RED Boxing Promotions operating as the promoter, as Hank Lundy will no longer serve as Mercado’s opponent.

“I am glad Jose Angulo took the fight on short notice and I appreciate him stepping up,” said Mercado, the Olympic Trials Silver Medalist in 2020. “Angulo is a tough opponent, but my plan is to end this fight early and continue my knockout streak.”

Born in Pomona, CA, Tito has quickly established himself as a force to be reckoned with. With his lightning-fast combinations, explosive power, Mercado is already making noise as one of the sport’s most exciting prospects.

Now, with a string of impressive wins under his belt, Tito is looking to take the next step and become the face of boxing. He believes that his story of perseverance and determination will inspire others to pursue their own dreams, no matter the odds.

Mercado has overcome numerous obstacles to reach the top of his game. Despite growing up in an underserved community, he never lost sight of his dreams, honing his skills through countless hours of hard work and dedication.

“I have big plans to be Southern California’s the next superstar in boxing.” continued Mercado. “I want to show people that anything is possible if you’re willing to put in the work. I know I have a long road ahead of me, but I’m making all the sacrifices to be great. This Saturday will be another step in the right direction.”

Tito, a promotional free agent, is ready to take the next step and join forces with a promoter who can help him reach new heights. The search for a promoter who shares his passion for the sport and his vision for the future, is the missing piece. He’s hoping to find a promoter who will help him achieve his ultimate goal of becoming a champion.

“I believe that I have what it takes to be a star in this sport, and I’m eager to find the right promoter who will help me get there,” Mercado says. “I’ve been working hard every day to improve my skills and reach my full potential. Right now, I have a great team behind me, and getting the right promoter will be the final piece.”

POMONA, CA (January 11, 2023) – Undefeated NABA super lightweight champion, Ernesto “Tito” Mercado (8-0, 8 KOs), is ready to start his 2023 off with a bang as he returns to the ring February 4, 2022. Mercado faces his toughest opponent to date, “Hammerin” Hank Lundy (31-12-1, 14 KOs) of Philadelphia, PA, in a scheduled 10-round co-main event at the LumColor Center in Ontario, CA. RED Boxing Promotions is the promoter.

“It feels great to be back fighting near my hometown, and I am ready to knock out another opponent,” said the 21-year-old Mercado, who calls Pomona, California his home. “I heard him say that he is making 38-year-olds look like 25-year-olds right now. After he fights me, he will feel his age and more than likely never want to fight again. I have a lot of respect for Hank Lundy, but he is too old and I’m going to send him into retirement once and for all!”

Hank Lundy has been in the ring with Terence Crawford, Viktor Postol, Jose Zepeda, and Thomas Dulorme, so its fair to say this is a major step up for Mercado.

“Hank has been in the ring with a lot of great fighters,” continued Mercado. 

“Now it is time for me to show that I am just as good as all those other fighters mentioned on his resume. I am calling out all a top lightweight and super lightweight contenders. No one is mentioning my name, now I have to fight veterans that most fighters in my weight class are avoiding to earn my respect in boxing.”

“You might call this a fight, but I will call it a statement,” concluded Mercado. “This is going to be a viral moment in which people will downplay what I do, but if they looked at Hank’s history, no one in my weight class will ever beat him the way I will on February 4th!”

POMONA, CA (October 24, 2022) – Rising star, Ernesto “Tito” Mercado (8-0, 8 KOs) captured the vacant super lightweight NABA Silver title this past Saturday when he stopped former world title challenger, Jayson Velez (30-10-1, 21 KOs). Velez, who went the distance with Ryan Garcia and JoJo Diaz, didn’t come out after the sixth round. The event, promoted by Red Promotions, took please at the LumColor Center in Ontario, California.

Mercado looked sensational from the opening bell, throwing multiple power shots from all angles, sending Velez into survival mode from the start. Tito landed a powerful left hook to the body, setting the tone for a dominating performance. It was evident that Velez was hurt on multiple occasions throughout the fight, as Tito tried to knock him out. After getting punished for six rounds, Velez had enough and didn’t come out for round seven, crowning Mercado the new NABA Silver champion at super lightweight.

“Fighting a veteran like Velez in only my eighth pro fight is a big deal to me,” said Tito Mercado, who has won all his fights by knockout, all of which took place in the United States. “I learned a lot in this fight being that I went past the third round for the first time in my career. I know there is more to work on and I’ll be looking at the tape to see where I can improve. One thing I know for sure is I’m not a boring fighter. Fans who turn in to watch me fight will get their money’s worth.”

With the victory, Tito Mercado at age 20, becomes one of the youngest regional belt holders in the sport. With over 300 amateur fights before turning professional, Mercado is certainly on the fast track to a world title. He’s hoping to break into the top 15 WBA rankings.

“Winning the NABA Silver title, I’m hoping gets me ranked with the WBA,” said Tito. “I’m ready to fight any of the top contenders in the WBA. I know my time is coming and I’m going to take advantage of every opportunity that comes my way.”

POMONA, CA (October 20, 2022) –Undefeated rising star, super lightweight Ernesto “Tito” Mercado (7-0, 7 KOs), and battle tested veteran, Jayson Vélez (30-9-1, 21 KOs), held a media workout earlier this week in anticipation of their upcoming fight taking place this Saturday at the LumColor Center in Ontario, CA. The scheduled 10-round bout, promoted by Red Promotions, will be for the vacant NABA Silver title. 

Here is what both fighters had to say about their upcoming bouts.

Ernesto “Tito” Mercado:

“This is a big opportunity for me to show the world how I compare to all the other elite prospects in lightweight and super lightweight divisions. I feel a solid win against a fighter like Velez, who has been in the ring with some notable fighters, will garner me the recognition with the boxing media and fans that I desire. All my wins have come in the state and not Mexico, like some of these other fighters who went down there to build up their records.”

“Fighting for the NABA Silver title this early in my career is a big deal for me. I’m hoping to be catapulted up the WBA rankings with the victory. This will be my first 10-round fight and I’m going to make this best of this opportunity. I want to thank the NABA and WBA for believing in me this early in career. I will be a great representation for them.”

Jayson Velez:

“Mercado is a great prospect with a lot of power, but he’s never been in the ring with someone at my level. I’m in great shape and I’m coming to win on his home turf. Don’t be surprised if I stop him. I’m representing Puerto Rico, my homeland, and will do everything in my power to come out on top.”

“A win against a top up and coming prospect, will put me right back in the rankings to make another run toward a world title. I feel I have a lot of fight left in me and I’m going to prove that this Saturday. Winning the NABA Silver title is the perfect opportunity for me to get back in the mix.”

Tickets priced $100, $75, $55 (Standing room only) will be available for purchase at the door. Doors open up at 5:00 pm, first fight starts at 6:00 p.m. PT.

POMONA, CA (October 13, 2022) – Widely considered the hidden gem of the lightweight division, Ernesto “Tito” Mercado (7-0, 7 KOs), who has a perfect record of seven wins all by way of knockout, is stepping up his competition and facing former world title contender Jayson Velez (30-9-1, 21 KOs). 

The 10-round bout will serve as the co-main event of RED Boxing Promotions, October 22, 2022, at the California Education & Performing Arts Center in Ontario, California. On the line with be the NABA Silver title.

“This will be for the NABA Silver title, my first regional belt, so everyone can expect to see me let my hands fly,” said Mercado, the young phenom from Pomona, California, who has only gone ten rounds in his seven professional fights. “I have wanted to fight someone who can go rounds with me, and I am hoping Jayson Velez will be that fighter. Fighting Velez is considered a major step up fight, and this is my opportunity to show the world where I’m at against a worthy opponent.”

For Velez, who has been in the ring with Gabriel Flores Jr. and Oscar Valdez, this is his chance to regain the hype he garnered when he was coming up the rankings, as the former world title contender is looking to regain his footing in the sport.

“I feel excellent, excited about the great opportunity that this fight has presented,” said Velez. “As for the fight, I know that I will enjoy it because Ernesto is a strong challenge. We are both explosive and because of our styles, it will be an entertaining fight for the fans, and do not doubt that they will see the best of me.”

“I just want to prove I am just as good as these other fighters people say are the best fighters in the world,” said Mercado. “I am fighting the toughest opponents available and beating them up badly. I feel a lot of fighters are entitled, given favors, and the media overrates them. I am the truth, and I am going to continue to be that until the whole world takes notice.”

POMONA, CA (August 29, 2022) – Rising lightweight star, Ernesto “Tito” Mercado (7-0, 7 KOs), kept his knockout streak intact last Thursday at The Hangar in Costa Mesa, CA, when he stopped Alfredo Rodolfo Blanco (22-11, 11 KOs) in the second round. Mercado vs. Blanco, an 8-round co-main event bout, was promoted by Roy Englebrecht Promotions.

Mercado was all action from the opening bell as he established his dominance, landing hard punches to the head and body. In the early part of round two, Mercado landed a powerful left hook to the temple, sending Blanco to the canvas. On wobbly legs, Blanco got up and continued fighting before being stopped by a combination flurry that Mercado unleashed. Time was 0:45 of round two.

“This was my first eight rounder and I was hoping to get to the second half of the fight, but I got him hurt and had to take him out,” Mercado said. “I like to consider myself as a true closer, one who, once I have my opponent hurt, will always look to close the show with a knockout. After the first knockdown, I knew it was just a matter of time before I got him out of there.”

Mercado has started his career off with seven straight knockouts and is rapidly becoming one of the most dangerous punchers in the lightweight division. He’s got the amateur pedigree to go along with his incredible punching power, which makes him a rare professional boxer.

“I was born with power in both hands, and I can take you out with a variety of punches,” continued Tito. “I know as my opponents get tougher, adjusting to different styles will be key when I go to the later rounds. Going the distance is something I know I’ll have to handle at some point in my career, but right now I’m enjoying ending fights early.” 

“I like to think of my son as a boxer puncher, but lately he’s been taking guys out early,” said Ernesto Mercado Sr., who trains and manages his son. “I was expecting this fight to go more rounds, but Tito hurt Blanco with a nice shot, and he couldn’t recover. We are looking to fight three more times before the end of the year.” 

POMONA, CA (August 19, 2022) – Undefeated lightweight rising star, Ernesto “Tito” Mercado (6-0, 6 KOs), has an opponent for his August 25th date, as he will square off against Alfredo Rodolfo Blanco (22-10, 11 KOs), from Pigue, Buenos Aires, Argentina. Mercado vs. Blanco, an 8-round co-main event bout, will take place at The Hangar in Costa Mesa, CA, a show promoted by Roy Englebrecht Promotions.

Mercado, who had an astonishing amateur record of 280 (W) -11 (L), is one of the top prospects in boxing. In only his seventh clash as professional, he will be fighting in his first 8-round bout.

“Right now, I feel I’m ready to step up to 8-round bouts,” stated Mercado, who will be walking into the ring with Pomona, CA, rapper, Sugar Free, who hails from theTito’s hometown. “I’m hoping to go some rounds in this fight, but of course if I get my opponent hurt, I’m going for the knockout. I want to send a message to the entire lightweight division, that I’m coming for them all. A lot of big names that are now pros, avoided me in the amateurs, so every time I step in the ring, I’m making a statement.”

Riding a 6-fight knockout steak to start his career, Mercado feels he’s rapidly making a name for himself, especially in the Southern California boxing scene. All of Mercado’s fights have taken place in SoCal, and his explosive knockouts have made him a local fan favorite.

“Our plan from the beginning was to build Tito’s brand in the Southern California market,” said Ernesto Mercado Sr., who is the head trainer for his son. “We’ve been blessed to have had all our fights take place in the Los Angeles area. Right now, we are free agents, which allows us to fight regularly on our terms. Blanco is a durable fighter with a lot of experience, and we hope to continue our path to a world title with another knockout.” 

POMONA, CA (June 30, 2022) – The future of the lightweight division and surging undefeated prospect, Ernesto “Tito” Mercado (6-0, 6 KOs), returns on August 25, 2022, at The Hangar at the OC Fair and Events Center in Costa Mesa, California. The card will be promoted by Roy Englebrecht Promotions, and Mercado’s opponent will be named on a later date.

“I stopped my last opponent in the same number of rounds as Keyshawn Davis did, but mine was more impressive, now I am going to continue being the most feared lightweight when I fight on August 25th,” said Mercado, the decorated amateur from of Pomona, California, with over a hundred wins in the amateurs and numerous national titles. “I am tired of all these entitled fighters, people who don’t want to fight, just talk. I am here to force these guys into these fights, and to bring the pride back into boxing. I am here to expose all of them.”

In Mercado’s last fight, which he referenced, knocked out Jose Zaragoza in two rounds. 2020 Olympic silver medalist Keyshawn Davis knocked out Zaragoza in the same duration on a televised ESPN bout, but Mercado did it in more impressive fashion.”

“I want all the big fighters, Keyshawn Davis and especially Shakur Stevenson, I see flaws in all of them,” continued Mercado. “I am hoping I can go longer than two rounds in this upcoming fight, but honestly I doubt it. At this level, these guys won’t be able to handle my power. I am just glad for the opportunity and the chance to entertain my fans.”

In Mercado’s seventh pro fight, he is already stepping up to 8-round bouts, as he has hopes of fighting for a regional title by the end of the year. 

“I want the best opponents possible, so naturally now I am fighting in eight-round bouts, because I need to be tested,” said Mercado. “I have a very good team with my father and I know that I will be in the best position possible moving forward. I’m hungry to show the world my talent and I’m working my way toward fighting for a regional title by the end of this year.” 

POMONA, CA (May 17, 2022) – Unbeaten rising star, lightweight Ernesto “Tito” Mercado (6-0, 6 KOs), remained undefeated as he stopped Jose Zaragoza (8-5-1, 2 KOs), last Thursday, May 12th, on a card promoted by Tom Loeffler’s 360 Promotions. The bout was shown live on UFC Fight Pass, and took place at The Quiet Cannon Country Club in Montebello, Ca.

Mercado dropped Zaragoza in the first round as it was clear he was the vastly superior fighter. Mercado’s blinding hand speed along with his one-punch power was on full display in this fight, as he finished Zaragoza off at the 1:07 mark of round two.

“Jose Zaragoza just fought Keyshawn Davis, and I wanted to show the world just how good I am, and why boxing writers should consider me for prospect of the year,” said Mercado, who stands 5’10. “I dropped him in the first round and got him out of there in the second. I felt I could have stopped him earlier but the referee let him survive. I’m putting everyone on notice, including Keyshawn Davis and all the other top prospects and champions, that I’m cementing my place in the lightweight division. I’m coming for everybody.”

Mercado was a decorated amateur with an impressive 280-11 record. In the pro ranks, he’s quickly becoming one of the most feared power punchers in boxing.

“I just want to move into title contention and these fights are needed to get my record up, but I want to fight the champions, the fighters people say are the best,” continued Mercado, who has knocked out all six of his opponents within the first two rounds. “I am becoming the most feared fighter in boxing and there is nothing any of these other fighters can do about it. By the end of the year I’ll be advancing from power punching prospect of the year to a serious contender in the lightweight division.”

POMONA, CA (May 11, 2022) – Undefeated rising star, Ernesto “Tito” Mercado (5-0, 5 KOs), has been making some serious noise in the lightweight division, having knocked out all five of his opponents to start off his career. He returns to the ring this Thursday, May 12, 2022, on a card promoted by Tom Loeffler’s 360 Promotions, against Jose Zaragoza (8-4-1, 2 KOs). The scheduled 6-round bout will air live on UFC Fight Pass from the Quiet Cannon Country Club, in Montebello, California.

After his pro debut, the only fight that has gone past round one, Mercado jumped right into six-round bouts. He made a statement in his fourth fight by stopping Marc Misiura (2-3-1, 1 KO), who had never been knocked out. Mercado, who has power in both hands, stands 5’10” with an amateur pedigree to go with his long frame. With momentum on his side, Mercado feels he has the talent to jump on the fast track to super stardom.

“I’ve been keeping my mind on the grind, never losing focus in-between fights,” said Mercado. “Right now, I’m one of the busiest fighters in the lightweight division. If I can stay on this busy path till the end of the year, I know I’ll be knocking on the door of a meaningful fight. The lightweight division is filled with tremendous talent, and those coming up from super-featherweight are great as well. I know with hard work, I’ll be a top contender, ready to fight any of those guys.”

Mercado, a student of the game, sees himself fighting all the big names at lightweight and super lightweight. His mental edge gives him confidence going into any fight.

“No disrespect to any other fighter coming up in my weight class, but I just feel I’m on another level mentally then all these guys,” continued Mercado, the punching pride of Pomona. “My dedication to this sport is what separates me from all my peers. I’m destined to be great, and I’m making all the sacrifices necessary to become a world champion. On May 12th, I’ll be looking to impress once again.”

POMONA, CA (April 20, 2022) – Lightweight sensation, Ernesto “Tito” Mercado (5-0, 5 KOs), who has knocked out every opponent he has faced, will return on Thursday, May 12, 2022, against Jose Zaragoza (8-4-1, 2 KOs). The scheduled 6-round bout will take place in Montebello, California, at the Quiet Cannon Country Club, promoted by Tom Loeffler’s 360 Promotions airing live on UFC Fight Pass.

Mercado is one of the most active fighters in the lightweight division and has stopped his last four opponents in the first round, with his last being a 36-fight veteran in Daniel Evangelista Jr. (20-14-2, 16 KOs), who was thought could take him rounds. It is clear Mercado’s power is different compared to his peers. His upcoming fight against Zaragoza will be his third bout of 2022.

“I want to be the most feared lightweight in the world, I have stopped every opponent I have faced, and this fight will be no different as I plan to come out throwing bombs,” said Mercado, who looks to be the hardest-hitting lightweight prospect in the world right now. “I’m always looking for opponents to give me more rounds, but I’ve been getting them hurt early, and when that happens my instinct is to always go for the knockout. I know the next level of competition will be different where I will have to go the distance, but it’s been nice ending fights early. The goal is to stay as active as possible so I can get into the world title picture by the end of next year.”

Mercado will look to get his sixth knockout in a row on May 12th, and with his knockout power, appears to be one of the most exciting fighters in all of boxing.

“My only focus right now is winning a world title and bringing it back to the gym with my father,” continued Mercado. “Everything is secondary to that goal. In 2022 I’ve been extremely active and it’s making me a better fighter, my confidence is at an all-time high. I want to be respected as the best lightweight of this era. I am chasing greatness, I think a lot of fighters now are not fighting with the pride you’d see in fighters from the 80s, and I am built from that cloth. I’m definitely like to consider myself as a throwback fighter”

COSTA MESA, CA (April 15, 2022) – Super lightweight rising star, Ernesto “Tito” Mercado (5-0, 5 KOs), remained undefeated scoring his fourth consecutive first round knockout, this time against battle tested veteran Daniel Evangelista Jr. (20-14-2, 16 KOs). The six-round bout, promoted by Englebrecht Promotions & Events on the popular Fight Club OC series, took place at The Hangar in Costa Mesa, CA.

Mercado came out guns blazing as soon as the bell rang and send Evangelista to the canvas in the opening minuet of round one, then followed up with two more knockdowns before the referee stopped the bout at the 1:37 mark. With another impressive knockout victory, Mercado is on the fast track to bigger fights.

“I’ve been saying in all my interviews that there are no more killers in the sport of boxing, and I wanted to come out again and show the world that I’m one of those throw back fighters like Mike Tyson,” said the Pomona, California native, Mercado. “I was hoping to get some rounds in against Evangelista, but I got him hurt early and took him out. Once I see my opponent hurt, my mindset is to finish him off. I want to be known as the next great knockout artist in boxing.”

At 20-years old, Mercado feels he’s one of the top prospects in boxing. After knocking out four of his five opponents within two round or less to start off his career, he’s well on his way to super stardom.

“I’ve never drank or smoke, so my body and mind is at one hundred percent when I step in the ring,” concluded Mercado, who was an Olympic alternate. “I feel if I keep working hard in and out of the ring, stay focused on the task at hand, I’ll become a world champion at some point. I’m grateful to my dad and trainer, Ernesto Mercado Sr., for keeping me on the straight and narrow, and all my supporters for helping me on my journey to the top. I’m putting everyone on notice in the lightweight and super lightweight divisions.”

POMONA, CA (March 22, 2022) – Undefeated prospect, Ernesto “Tito” Mercado (4-0, 4 KOs), who has started his career with four straight knockouts, looks to make it five in a row as he fights at The Hangar, in Costa Mesa, California, on April 14th against an opponent yet to be named. The scheduled 6-round bout is being promoted by Englebrecht Promotions & Events on the popular Fight Club OC series.

“It feels good to be right back in the ring, I am happy to be staying so active, and keeping the momentum going as my career couldn’t have started any better,” said the sensational knockout artist Mercado. “It is important to get ring time especially as I start out so I can improve early in my career and be prepped for what will come later. My goal is not just to be a world champion, but a multiple-weight world champion, and each fight is a step in that direction.”

In Mercado’s last bout he needed only one round to knock out his opponent and has only gone to the second round once in his pro career.

“Getting rounds are key at this point, I know that as I fight better competition, I will have to be better prepared to face tougher opponents, so I am focused on improving each and every fight,” continued Mercado. “This is the start of a long career, and I am trying to make the most out of each fight. I’m looking forward to fighting in front of my SoCal fans.”

Tickets are available for purchase by calling (949) 760-3131 on online at socafights.com. The show is almost sold out so get your tickets while they last. Doors open 6:00pm, first bout starts at 7:00pm PT.

POMONA, CA (February 14, 2022) – Super lightweight rising prospect,
Ernesto “Tito” Mercado (4-0, 4 KOs), scored another impressive knockout this past Saturday, February 12, 2022, at the Commerce Casino, in Commerce, California, as he annihilated Marc Misiura (2-3-1, 1 KO) to keep KO streak alive. The fight was promoted by Red Boxing and Elite Boxing Promotions.

Mercado, who was looking to make a statement in this fight, came out firing and landed an explosive straight right hand to the head of Misiura in the first minuet of round one, sending him to the canvas. After getting up, Mercado followed up with a powerful right uppercut that dropped Misiura for the second time. Up again but now on wobbly legs, Misiura was met with an onslaught of punches from Mercado, forcing the referee to stop the bout in the later half of the opening round. Mercado is the first man to stop Misiura.

“I told everyone that I was going to make a statement in this fight by being the first person to stop Misiura, and I accomplished that goal,” said Mercado who had an incredible amateur record of 278-11 and was a 2020 Olympic alternate. “It was exciting fighting in front of all my fans and I’m grateful to Red Boxing and Elite Boxing Promotions for giving me this opportunity.”

Mercado has goals and aspirations to become a superstar in boxing and feels his time is coming where he’ll be fighting on a major network.

“I want to be recognized as the next great puncher in boxing,” continued Mercado, who stands 5’11. “I have the power to change a fight with one punch and that’s great for television. Everything is falling into place with my career, and I can’t wait to get back in the ring. Right now, I’m a promotional free agent, but I’m hoping by the end of the year, I’ll be fighting with one of the top promotions in boxing.”

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POMONA, CA (February 7, 2022) – Decorated amateur, undefeated super lightweight sensation, Ernesto “Tito” Mercado (3-0, 3 KOs), a 21-time national champion, will fight this Saturday, February 12, 2022, at the Commerce Casino, in Commerce, California, as he faces Marc Misiura (2-2-1, 1 KO) in a scheduled 6-round bout.

Mercado, who was a 2020 Olympic alternate, was undefeated in the bouts he competed in at the Olympic Trials, won gold internationally and had an outstanding amateur record of 278-11.

This will be Mercado’s third scheduled six-round bout in only his fourth professional fight, though none of his fights have gone the distance, and the only one to go two rounds was his professional debut.

“I want to thank my dad, my team, and Red Promotions for this opportunity to fight on this card in Southern California,” said Mercado, a five-foot, ten-inch 20-year old power puncher. “I am working hard to prove myself as a professional, as I did as a world-class amateur, and I plan on putting forth exciting fights to go along with using my high ring IQ.”

For those unaware, Mercado was in a prime position to fight for his father’s native Nicaragua in the Continental Olympic Qualifiers for the 2020 Olympics in Tokyo, but due to COVID, all the qualifications were changed, and Mercado was unable to compete or be given a chance to secure a spot.

“I won’t lie, it hurt not being able to fight in the Olympics,” said Mercado. “I know everything happens for a reason and I am more driven and focused because I feel as though one of my goals was taken from me.”

Mercado holds wins over Haven Brady, Charlie Sheehy, Dallas Kaleiopu, Harley Mederos, Amado Vargas, Malik Warren and Aaron Aponte, and is bilingual, speaking English and Spanish, while training out of his father’s boxing gym, G2G Boxing in Pomona, California.

“I am excited to face my opponent as he is coming off a draw in his last fight to an undefeated fighter, so to him, that is probably viewed as a win,” concluded Mercado, who is a promotional free agent. “This is the most confident version of Misiura that I’ll be facing and my goal is to stop him, send a message to the entire division, and by the end of the year you will see me in eight, and maybe even ten-round fights. I’m ready to take my boxing career to the next level.”

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