Mercito Gesta returning April 11 in San Diego

Once-hot prospect Mercito "No Mercy" Gesta will return to the ring on Friday, April 11, facing veteran Edgar Riovalle in an eight-round lightweight main event from the Del Mar Fairgrounds in San Diego.

Gesta (26-1-1, 14 KO) hasn't fought since he was completely outclassed by IBF titleholder Miguel Vazquez in December 2012, but the 26-year-old Filipino southpaw still has plenty of career ahead of him, and is looking to get back into the mix.

"I'm happy that there has been an opponent announced for my fight." said Gesta. "I'm really looking to put on an exciting show for all my fans. My goal is to get back in the world title mix and it starts with Riovalle. I don't know much about him but I know he's coming to win. He has a lot of experience with over 50 fights to his credit, so I know he has some tricks up his sleeve. I'll be ready for anything he comes with."

Riovalle (37-17-2, 26 KO) is a nine-year pro, but he's only 27 years old. He loses to his better opponents, but he does have some power, and Gesta's ring rust could make this an interesting fight.