Emiliano Vargas shines in the spotlight, securing a TKO victory in the co-main event.
GLENDALE, Arizona - Promoter Eddie Hearn's eyes lit up when he spotted Emiliano Vargas, the poised young fighter destined for boxing stardom. As Vargas stepped onto the news-conference stage, Hearn exclaimed, 'This kid is a sensation! He's the co-main event.'
In a strategic move, Hearn elevated Vargas' match, demoting former welterweight title contender Abel Ramos' bout. This decision placed Vargas, the 21-year-old son of former champion Fernando Vargas, in a more prominent position on the DAZN card at Desert Diamond Arena.
Following his brief appearance with Puerto Rico's Xander Zayas on the Super Bowl 60 halftime show, Vargas showcased his power and defeated Agustin Quintana of Argentina by TKO after nine rounds. Referee Raul Caiz Jnr stopped the fight due to Quintana's significant head injuries and bleeding near both eyes.
Vargas, with his 14th knockout, expressed his desire to keep learning and improving. Despite being under contract with Bob Arum's Top Rank, which operates without a television/streaming deal after a July split from ESPN, Vargas' performance was exceptional.
The third round saw Vargas' efforts intensify as he connected with a right, a power jab, a combination of body blows, and a hurtful left hand. He continued his dominance in the fourth, pounding Quintana's body and slamming a left to the head.
Quintana, a 2025 Prospect of the Year, demonstrated resilience, pounding Vargas' body in the fifth and landing a low blow. Vargas responded with body blows but acknowledged that the round wasn't his best. This test of grit is essential to prove his battle-tested credentials.
Vargas aimed for a knockout, drawing on his experience. He praised Quintana as a formidable fighter. During the seventh round, Vargas, guided by his trainer-father, pounded Quintana's body and further reddened his eyes.
Hard rights to the head in the eighth round showcased Vargas' endurance. Despite Quintana's urging, the fight was stopped due to his injuries. Before the ninth round, Vargas' father urged him to continue, and Vargas obliged, showcasing his power and securing his victory.
Vargas, just 21, expressed his ambition to become a world champion and refine his skills. He aims to face a former world champion in his next bout, solidifying his status as a rising star in the boxing world.
