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Mercito Gesta returns against Edgar Riovalle on April 11

Fighters Network
05
Apr
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Photo by Chris Farina/Top Rank.

San Diego-based lightweight Mercito Gesta will end a 16-month ring absence against Mexico's Edgar "Basuras" Riovalle on April 11 at The Del Mar Fairgrounds, in Del Mar, Calif.

A 26-year-old born in the Philippines, Gesta (26-1-1, 14 KOs) was last in the ring for a unanimous-decision loss to IBF beltholder Miguel Vazquez in December 2012. He was scheduled to face Nigerian Ajose Olusegun last July but the fight was called off after Gesta injured a rib. He was soon after dropped by promoter Top Rank when his contract ended.

"I'm happy that there has been an opponent announced for my fight. I'm really looking to put on an exciting show for all my fans. My goal is to get back in the world title mix and it starts with Riovalle," said Gesta in a press release.

"I don't know much about him, but I know he's coming to win. He has a lot of experience with over 50 fights to his credit, so I know he has some tricks up his sleeve. I'll be ready for anything he comes with."



The 27-year-old Riovalle (37-17-2, 26 KOs) has lost three of his past four fights, having last been in the ring for a unanimous-decision loss to Alexei Collado in February.

"The time is now for me to get back in the ring and show the world that I can still compete at the championship level. I've had time to reflect on my loss to Miguel Vazquez, which was a great learning experience, and vow to come back stronger than ever," said Gesta.

"San Diego is my second home, so I'm excited to be making my ring return at the Del Mar Fairgrounds where all my family and friends can come see me fight. I want to thank all the promoters who help put this fight card together. 'No Mercy' is back."

Entitled "Ringside at Del Mar," the event is the second edition of a boxing series being presented by Paco Presents in association with A&T GYM, Barron Entertainment, Golden Boy and Don Chargin.

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