Ernesto Mercado completed a four-week training camp in Big Bear, California, with Hall of Famer Shane Mosley serving as a training advisor ahead of his August 15 fight against Emmanuel Tagoe in Atlanta.
The unbeaten 140-pound contender will face the former world title challenger in the co-main event of the Claressa Shields vs. Kaye Scott card at State Farm Arena, airing live on DAZN. The bout also marks Mercado’s first appearance since signing a long-term partnership with Salita Promotions and Wynn Records.
Training at altitude has pushed the 24-year-old physically and mentally as he prepares for another step up in competition.
“The altitude has been great,” Mercado said. “It’s a different type of training and breathing; it really challenges your mental state. It’s 90 percent of the recipe in this fight game. I’m locked in. I’ve sacrificed so much; I feel bad for my opponent on August 15.
“The work I’ve put in this camp is going to shine on fight night. I can’t wait to put on a show for the fans at State Farm Arena. I’m going to keep the crowd on its feet and warm it up for the GWOAT.”
Ranked No. 4 by the WBO and No. 5 by the IBF at light welterweight, Mercado has knocked out his last eight opponents. He has been extended beyond six rounds only twice since turning professional.
His father and trainer, Ernest Mercado Sr., welcomed the opportunity to work alongside Mosley, believing the Big Bear setting has sharpened every aspect of camp.
“After Sugar Shane invited us to train at his gym, it was a no-brainer to have a fellow Pomona legend like Shane part of our camp,” Mercado Sr. said. “The elevation, the isolation are all key to helping us stay focused and away from distractions as we prepare for Aug. 15.
“We’ve been meticulous in this camp about setting up Tito’s shots. He’s looking really good. He’s ready. He’s willing to go through deep waters, go in there and do what a lot of other fighters won’t do.”
After working with Mercado throughout camp, Mosley believes the unbeaten contender has all the tools to continue climbing the rankings.
“Tito has a lot of great talent: speed, great power, and movement,” Mosley said. “His approach to the fight is really high quality. He has the mentality of a champion; it’ll only be a matter of time until he becomes one.
“I’m excited to see him fight on August 15. I was in the ring with him, so I can say firsthand he’s more than ready.”