Talk about the Chris Mannix YouTube channelMora said Mercado should continue to face experienced opposition as he resumes activity, noting that additional rounds against seasoned fighters will be important at this stage of his career. He named former IBF junior welterweight champion Liam Paro, along with Jamaine Ortiz and Oscar Duarte, as potential next opponents.
“A good matchup for him would be someone like Liam Paro,” Mora said. “It’s a fight where he won’t be able to stand still and the other guy will have to go looking.”
Mercado, who remains undefeated, said he would like to pursue a title opportunity and named the winner of the Jan. 31 bout between Teofimo Lopez and Shakur Stevenson, scheduled to be contested for the WBO junior welterweight belt, as a target.
Such a fight could be difficult to arrange depending on how the division develops after that fight, with Stevenson and Lopez both expected to remain active at the top level in 2025.
Meanwhile, Mercado also identified Keyshawn Davis, Richardson Hitchins and Gary Antuanne Russell as other opponents he would consider facing as he continues to move up the rankings.
Mora said Matchroom Boxing should take a patient approach with Mercado upon his return, pointing to his background as an accomplished amateur who won several national titles before turning professional.
Mercado competes in the junior welterweight division.
