Vargas speaks out after retaining WBA bantamweight title in battle with Daigo Higa in Japan
In an unforgettable night of championship boxing at the BUNTAI Arena, WBA Bantamweight World Champion Antonio Vargas (19-1-1, 11 KOs) showed the heart of a true warrior, retaining his title with a dramatic draw against hometown favorite Daigo Higa (23-3-3, 19 KOs), in a fight broadcast live on DAZN.
Vargas, co-promoted by Boxlab Promotions and Matchroom Boxing, faced adversity early, hitting the canvas in round four after a sharp left hook landed from Higa. But the champ didn’t fold—he showed incredible resilience and continued to fight with vigor.
“Getting dropped lit a fire in me,” Vargas said. “I knew I had to shake it off and do my best to win the rest of that round—and every round after that. Champions don’t fold… we fight back.”
From the fifth to the 10th, Vargas pushed forward with a steady, calculated pace, refusing to let the pressure rattle him in front of the roaring Japanese crowd. “I stayed locked in,” the 28-year-old American continued. “This wasn’t about flash—it was about focus. I kept my head down, worked my jab, fought on the inside, and stayed disciplined. That’s how you survive on enemy turf.”
Then came the final round—a defining moment. With just over a minute left, Vargas unleashed a vicious combination, dropping Higa to the canvas with a right uppercut, turning the tide of the bout. “I dug deep and left it all out there,” said Vargas. “That knockdown wasn’t just a punch—it was a statement moment. It’s what kept my belt around my waist. All glory to my Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.”
Though the fight was ruled a draw, the knockdown in the 12th secured Vargas the edge he needed to retain his world title—and win the respect of fans worldwide.
“Antonio showed the world what it means to be a true champion,” said Boxlab Promotions President Amaury Piedra. “To go into hostile territory, get knocked down, and come back to finish strong—that takes courage, discipline, and heart. We’re unbelievably proud of him. He went to Japan with a mission and proved he’s one of the best bantamweights on the planet. The belt stays with Team Vargas.”
As for what’s next, Vargas stated. “I’ll let my team work on that and then we’ll decide. Whether it be a defense or unification bout, I’ll be ready!”
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