Ernesto ‘Tito’ Mercado vs. José Pedraza will headline a major boxing event on January 13, 2025 at the Galen Center in Los Angeles. This showdown between young prospect Mercado and the experienced Pedraza promises to define who will take the next big step in the super lightweight division.
A Fight with High Expectations
Tito Mercado (16-0, 15 KOs) is establishing himself as one of boxing’s biggest up-and-comers. Known for his power and aggressive style, the 23-year-old has defeated experienced opponents. Against Henry Lundy and Jeremia Nakathila, Tito won by knockout in the opening rounds. This will be his biggest test yet against a former world champion.
On the other hand, Jose Pedraza (29-5-1, 14 KOs), nicknamed “The Sniper,” has already proven his quality by winning titles in two divisions. Victories over Ray Beltran and Stephen Smith, and fights against elites such as Vasiliy Lomachenko and Jose Ramirez. The 34-year-old Puerto Rican is looking to prove he still belongs at the top.
Why This Fight Is Special
This bout pits Mercado’s youth and explosive power against Pedraza’s experience and technical versatility. For Mercado, it’s a chance to establish himself as one of the best in his division. For Pedraza, it is a chance to prove he can still compete at the highest level. The fight is already generating great expectation as a must-see event.
Key Perspectives
Prior to the bout, Mercado stated, “This is my time to show that I’m ready to face the big names in the division.” Pedraza, for his part, highlighted his experience, “I’ve faced the best, and Mercado will be just another challenge that I will overcome.”
Why You Can’t Miss It
With a generational clash of styles and big implications for the division, this fight has all the ingredients to kick off the boxing year with a bang.
