By Ryan Burton

Undefeated lightweight contender Mercito Gesta (26-0-1) is currently training in the high altitude of Big Bear, California for his December 8th title clash against IBF lightweight champion Miguel Vazquez. Gesta feels that Big Bear is the perfect place to prepare for his fight.

"The air is very thin. I think this is the type of work I need for a title fight," said Gesta who has been sparring against the likes of Joel Diaz Jr. and Aaron Garcia. "I have gotten great sparring up here. Joel is a great fighter and is giving me good work," he concluded.

Vazquez last fought on October 27th when he defeated Marvin Quintero via unanimous decision in a fight that had virtually no excitement. Gesta thinks that the Mexican fighter may have been looking ahead to the fight against Gesta which takes place on the Manny Pacquiao versus Juan Manuel Marquez undercard.

"I watched that fight. It seemed like Vazquez tried to avoid any hits and just wanted to avoid getting any injuries in the fight. Maybe he was thinking of our fight and didn't want to get hurt. I know that is his style but it seemed like he just ran around," Gesta stated.

I asked the Filipino fighter if he felt pressure to force the action against Vazquez being that the fight is on such a big stage. "Yeah kind of. This guy always runs. He is awkward. That is his style and we know we have to bring the fight to him. My team is preparing a plan to combat that. We know we have to keep focused on training and on the game plan," Gesta told Boxingscene.

Gesta finished our conversation with a message for the fans. He lives in San Diego and expects a sizable contingent to make the 5 hour drive to Las Vegas to watch his fight. "I want to thank all of my fans. We have waited a long time for this and it is finally here. Tune in on December 8th to check it out. I want to thank all of my fans in San Diego and around the world for their support."

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