Lightweight Joel Diaz Jr 26-2 (22) is ready to get back in the mix at 135-pounds after a number fights in the junior welterweight division.
The 30-year-old from Palmdale, California will take on San Diego-based Filipino southpaw Mercito ‘No Mercy’ Gesta 32-3-3 (17) at the Fantasy Springs Resort Casino in Indio, California on Thursday night.
Eight of Diaz’s past 10 fights have taken place at 140-pounds or above.
“I feel on top of the world headlining a card on Golden Boy and DAZN. This is a big opportunity for me and I will make sure to take advantage of it,” Diaz said.
“I have some unfinished business at 135. I went up to 140 because I had a good opportunity but I do feel like I still have a lot to do at 135. This weight is comfortable for me, and I want to continue where I left off.
“I do have to make a statement against Mercito Gesta to show who Joel Diaz, Jr. is. Inside of the ring you will see the brawler but we are going to be more patient and be ready to go the distance. I have a new trainer. I have new skills and I am ready to put those skills on display during this fight.”
The 34-year-old Gesta is a former world title challenger, losing over 12 frames to Jorge Linares for the WBA lightweight belt at the Forum in Inglewood, California in January 2018.
He says the hard-punching style of Diaz is tailor-made for him and believes his big fight experience will get him over the line.
“I think my experience will give me the edge on this fight. I need to be smart and use my experience and speed to be able to secure the victory on Thursday,” Gesta said.
“It’s a great comeback fight for me and for him as well. I know we have both been off for a while but I have kept myself busy, kept training to stay in shape.
“I have fought hard-hitting guys in the past. I have fought pressure fighters. When I faced Oscar Mesa he was also a hard puncher, a knock-out fighter, but I won that fight. So, it’s not new to me, I am used to this type of fighter. I feel confident in my abilities and fans will see that on Thursday night.
“I do believe that if I give a good performance on Thursday I will be put up on the list of the lightweight division and hopefully get bigger fights.
“I have been working very hard every day even though I didn’t have a fight scheduled. I wanted to stay busy and stay in shape. Hopefully all the training and sparring will pay off and I will do very well on Thursday.”
