Interim titlist Antonio Vargas eyes WBA bantamweight belt
Boxlab Promotions’ rising star Antonio Vargas (19-1, 11 KOs) showcased his grit, determination, and knockout power when he claimed the WBA interim world bantamweight title in dramatic fashion on December 13, 2024, at the Caribe Royale Resort in Orlando, FL.
The 27-year-old from Kissimmee, FL, scored a stunning stoppage of previously unbeaten Winston “El Fantasma” Guerrero (22-1, 13 KOs) in the 12-round main event of MVP’s Most Valuable Prospects 10 card televised live on DAZN.
IBO #9 Vargas, who climbed off the canvas early in the fight, delivered a career-defining performance that has solidified his status as one of boxing’s brightest talents. He is now seeking a showdown with WBA bantamweight champion Seiya Tsutsumi (12-0, 8 KOs) of Japan.
“Getting knocked down was a reminder of how tough this sport is, but I showed the heart of a champion,” said Vargas, who is a devout Christian. “Winston Guerrero is a great fighter, but I refused to let this moment slip away. Winning the WBA interim title is the result of all the sacrifices I’ve made, and it’s just the beginning.”
Vargas’s journey to this milestone has been nothing short of inspiring. Since his lone professional defeat in 2019, he has reeled off 10 consecutive wins, seven of which came by knockout. This winning streak shows how hard he’s worked to improve his skills and his willpower to become the best in his weight class.
“The road back hasn’t been easy,” Vargas reflected. “I had to dig deep, fix mistakes, and stay focused. Every fight since 2019 has been a step closer to this title. Those tough moments built the fighter you see today, and I’m ready for anything that comes my way.”
Looking ahead, Vargas has his sights set on the reigning WBA bantamweight world champion, Seiya Tsutsumi of Japan. Undeterred by the challenge of traveling abroad, Vargas expressed confidence in his ability to take on the best.
“I want to prove I’m the best bantamweight in the world, and that means facing Seiya Tsutsumi,” concluded Vargas. “I’m ready to fight him in Japan or anywhere else. This is what being a champion is all about—facing the toughest challenges head-on and coming out on top.”
With his relentless drive, a world title in his grasp, and a vision for unifying the bantamweight division, Antonio Vargas is poised for a monumental 2025. Boxing fans around the globe can expect more electrifying performances from him in the months and years to come.”
“Antonio Vargas proved he’s an elite fighter with his performance against Guerrero proved he’s ready for the biggest fights,” said Boxlab Promotions President Amaury Piedra. “We are working diligently to finalize a fight in Japan against Seiya Tsutsumi for the WBA title. Antonio’s desire and skills make us confident he can unify the division and cement his place as one of boxing’s top stars.”