Earlier today in Hollywood, California three of the world?s best lightweights could be found inside of the Fortune Gym ran by trainer Justin Fortune. WBA lightweight champion Brandon ?Bam Bam? Rios, former title challenger Urbano Antillon, and undefeated Mercito ?No Mercy? Gesta were all in the building, preparing for their respective dates with destiny on July 9th.
In the main event of a Showtime-televised doubleheader, Rios will defend his crown against Antillon in a grudge match that is sure to deliver fireworks. Rios captured the title with a career-defining TKO over Miguel Acosta in February inside of the Palms Casino in Las Vegas, Nevada and in Antillon he will find himself in with a man who he genuinely loathes and one who will be right in front of his face all night.
Gesta is a southpaw hailing from Mandaue City in the Philippines and spent much of this camp at Freddie Roach?s Wild Card Boxing Club, even sparring some rounds with WBA junior welterweight champion Amir Khan. Gesta has talent for sure, but his opponent this weekend, Mexican journeyman Jorge Pimentel, leaves much to be desired.
My colleague Dennis Guillermo made some good points in a recent column, stating how it is high time for the 23-year old to step up his level of competition. Having recently inked a promotional pact with Top Rank, perhaps those moves will be coming in the near future.
For images of Rios, Antillon, and Gesta please visit the slideshow on the left…
