Ernesto Mercado Scores Fourth-Round TKO Of Jose Pedraza

In a spectacular display of power and precision, Ernesto "Tito" Mercado solidified his standing as a rising star in the lightweight division with a fourth-round TKO victory over former two-division champion Jose Pedraza. The bout, which took place at The Cosmopolitan, ended decisively when Mercado delivered a crushing left-right combination that sent Pedraza to the canvas, stopping the fight at 2 minutes and 8 seconds of the round.

Mercado, only 23 years old and now with a record of 17-0, including 16 KOs, faced his most experienced opponent but handled the challenge with remarkable calm and effectiveness. His strategy of steady, scoring body shots set the stage for the explosive finish, showcasing his ability to compete and dominate at higher levels.

The presence of WBC lightweight titleholder Shakur Stevenson at ringside added extra tension and excitement. Mercado directly called him out after the fight, declaring his readiness to take on even greater challenges.