Sergio Mora Calls Ernesto Mercado “The Real Deal”

Commentator Sergio Mora raved about Ernesto Mercado after watching him dismantle Antonio Moran with a sixth-round knockout last Saturday night in Stockton, California.

Mora was impressed by the power of the 24-year-old Mercado, who knocked Moran down three times — once in the first round and twice more in the sixth to force the stoppage.

Power on Display

“Tito Mercado is the real deal! The 140-lb division has a new power player. #MercadoMoran,” said DAZN commentator Sergio Mora on social media last Saturday night.

Sergio says the 140-lb division has a “new power player,” and he’s right. The Southern California native fits in naturally with the division’s top names.

Based on how Ernesto looked against Moran after eleven months of inactivity, he would have an excellent chance of beating any of the current champions at 140:

• Teofimo Lopez – WBO
• Richardson Hitchins – IBF
• Gary Antuanne Russell – WBA
• Subriel Matias – WBC

Newcomers to the 140-lb division, Shakur Stevenson and Keyshawn Davis, would have a difficult time with the speed and punching power that “Tito” Mercado put on display. I rate Mercado over Shakur and Keyshawn in pure ability.

High-Risk Matchup

Of course, the chances of Mercado getting a fight against either are slim due to the risk he brings and his lack of name recognition. He’s high risk with little reward for Stevenson or Davis. Without Turki Alalshikh taking notice, those matchups are unlikely — Mercado would spoil the attraction value they bring to Turki’s cards.

What Mercado needs now is activity — ideally three fights in 2026 — to raise his profile and force bigger opportunities.

Mercado is now 18-0 with 17 knockouts after four years as a pro. The Matchroom-promoted puncher hasn’t been fighting long, but he’s looked dangerous every step of the way.