‘No Mercy’ shows mercy

(US-based Cebuano boxer gives back to California frontliners)

CEBU, Philippines —  He’s known with the ring name ‘No Mercy’ in the boxing world.

But deep inside him, he is truly full of mercy.

The kind of mercy that radiates in the hearts of many in these challenging times.

In partnership with Epic Wings chain of restaurants, Cebuano boxer Mercito ‘No Mercy’ Gesta from Labogon, Mandaue City donated hundreds of food packs to the first responders and frontline workers in California specifically in San Diego County where he is now based.

“Honored to give back to our first responders. Giving back to my community is always in my heart. It is my happiness and it is my passion. I love the opportunities to give what I have and do more than I can,” said Gesta in an exclusive feature by Neil Macasadia posted on his official website mercitogesta.com.

Gesta’s charitable endeavor reached the officers of the San Diego Police Department, the health care professionals at the Gateway Medical Group in Chula Vista, and at the Kaiser Permanente medical offices in Bonita.

“Had an amazing time as I gave back to these amazing officers at the San Diego Police Department. They risk their lives everyday being on the front line protecting our community. You are our true and brave heroes, and I am grateful for everything that you do for us,”shared Gesta.

The veterinarians and veterinary technicians at Banfield Pet Hospital in La Jolla were also touched by Gesta’s generous hands.

“They’re also on the front line during this pandemic. Thank you so much for taking care of our pets and keeping them safe and healthy,” he said.

In another post by Macasadia on Gesta’s website yesterday, Gesta handed out pizzas from Tim at Schooner Station Pizzeria & Sports Pub to all health care personnel at Kaiser Permanente in Irvine.

“You are all my true super heroes and I thank you from the bottom of my heart,” said Gesta.

The 32-year-old Gesta is the reigning World Boxing Organization (WBO) NABO lightweight champion. He won the title after beating Robert Manzanarez by majority decision on June 14, 2018 at the Fantasy Springs Casino in Indio.

Gesta’s 2019 campaign, however, went bleak. He was knocked out by Juan Antonio Rodriguez before fighting to a draw with Carlos Morales in his last fight on November 14, 2019 at the Belasco Theater in Los Angeles.

Gesta (32-3-3, 17KOs) once fought for the World Boxing Association (WBA) lightweight crown but lost by unanimous decision to Mexico’s Jorge Linares on January 27, 2018 at the Forum in Inglewood.

He may not have achieved his dream to become a world champion for now but Gesta is already a champion in life for his good deeds that touched other people’s lives.