By Dennis "dSource" Guillermo
The boxing gods have been smiling at Mercito "No Mercy" Gesta (26-0-1, 14 KOs), a lightweight fighter who has managed to climb up the ranks despite the absence of an amateur boxing background. And after his sensational 9th round stoppage win over Ty Barnett on ESPN Friday Night Fights on Aug. 3rd, Gesta finally gets his long-coveted title fight as his promoters line him up against IBF lightweight world champion Miguel Vazquez (31-3-0, 13 KOs).
Vazquez is a young and formidable champ, having successfully defended his crown six times after snagging it when he handed former Amir Khan tormentor, Colombian Breidis Prescott, the first loss of his career back in 2009. Though not a KO artist, Vazquez knows how to score points and use his height and reach while fighting on the outside.
"I think he's more difficult than other guys I fought," Gesta told me in an exclusive interview in recognition of the difficulty of the task ahead of him. "He knows how to use his height. He knows how to back up. He's not engaging. That's kinda' hard. It's hard to fight a guy that doesn't want to fight; just hit and run, hit and run," he added.
As in his previous tests and challenges, Gesta is confident that he and his team will formulate an effective game plan that will secure him the victory, and the distinction of being a world champion.
"We'll always have a plan for that and try to find out how to get inside, maybe try to corner him if he backs up. Not try to follow him, but stop him in the corner. That's probably what I'm going to do on top of what my dad will tell me, and Vince (assistant trainer Vince Parra). We'll do our homework," Gesta said.
As to when he will be ready for that fight, Gesta suggested, "For me November, I'll be ready for that," although adding that he will be ready to go any time the fight is out together. "Right now, hearing that, that I'll be fighting for a title against him is just exciting. I can't wait." Neither can his loyal fans, especially those boxing maniacs from the beautiful city of San Diego.