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.”