MANILA – Filipino-American Mercito Gesta captured the WBO NABO lightweight belt with a majority-decision win over Mexican Roberto Manzanarez at the Fantasy Springs Resort Casino in Indio, California.
Gesta, who traced his roots from Mandaue City in Cebu province, bounced back after failing in his world title bid against former WBA lightweight champion Jorge Linares in January.
Despite being shorter, Gesta was able to stamp class over the taller and rangy Manzanarez to nab 95-95, 96-94, 96-94 from the three judges on Friday.
Gesta used his speed to execute a solid start but Manzanares had the reach advantage as he found footing midway in the match. Later, in the fifth round, the latter sustained a cut on the right eye.
Manzanares regained his form in the sixth round as he kept Gesta at bay with powerful hits. Gesta responded in the next few rounds with combinations to eke out a close victory.
“I feel confident. I feel great. Every fight is different but I feel comfortable and happy with my performance in this one,” Gesta said.
“He (Manzanares) is a tough opponent. I’ve hurt him a couple of times but he stayed in there and he fought toe to toe,” the Filipino-American added.
The 30-year-old Gesta improved his record to 32 wins, two losses and two draws with 17 knockout wins while Manzanarez’s slate dropped to 36-2-0 with 29 stoppage wins./PN
