If he defeats Mercito Gesta on January 27th at the Forum in Inglewood, California, he’s aiming for Mikey Garcia or Vasyl Lomanchenko.
In an interview with ESPN, the Venezuelan said that although his focus is currently beaming in on Gesta, he knows that if he wins, opportunity will knock, and he can shine!
“The truth is that if Lomachenko goes up to 135 pounds it would be great for him, for me and for boxing … On the other hand, a fight with Mikey would be sensational, as our styles compliment perfectly. Both are excellent options for my career.
“At the moment I am very focused on Mercito Gesta. There are people who said that my past training with Roach gives Gesta and advantage over me. I do not see any advantage.
“I trained with Roach and I lost with him in the corner. Trainers don’t fight. Now I am so happy with my Trainer Ismael Salas. I made a total change and learned to work with him.
“We have formed a great team and have evolved favorably. But at the end of the day, those who go up to the ring will not be Roach or Salas, only Gesta and me!”
The Linares and Gesta fight will be broadcast on HBO on Saturday, January 27 at 10pm.
