In an unforgettable night of championship boxing at the BUNTAI Arena, Japan, on July 30, WBA Bantamweight World Champion Antonio Vargas (19-1-1, 11 KOs) had to battle back from an early knockdown to retain his title with a dramatic draw against hometown favourite 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 in the fourth round after hitting the canvas following a sharp, heavy left hook counter from Higa.
But the champ didn’t break—he showed incredible resilience and continued to fight with fire with fire.
“Getting dropped lit a fire in me,” Vargas reflected. “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, Florida’s Vargas pushed forward with a steady, calculated pace, refusing to let the pressure rattle him in front of the partisan Japanese crowd.
“I stayed locked in,” the 28-year-old American reviewed. “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 title test.
“I dug deep and left it all out there,” said the proud champion. “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.”
Vargas hasn’t immediately confirmed a rematch, waiting to see what options are available first, “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!”
American challenger Ricardo Sandoval shocked Kenshiro Teraji in the main event with a split decision win over the champion to be crowned WBC and WBA world flyweight champion.
