Rising star Ernesto “Tito” Mercado battles Jayson Velez for NABA Silver title
Photos by MJS Entertainment
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 super lightweight 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.
