Mills entered the fight as Vargas’ toughest professional opponent, bringing an aggressive style and a reputation for durability.
Vargas boxed effectively over the first three rounds, using his jab and movement to keep Mills from getting his offense going. Mills tried to force exchanges at close range, but Vargas repeatedly answered with combinations before circling away.
Vargas scored the first knockdown in the third round and put Mills on the canvas again in the fourth. After pinning Mills against the ropes with a sustained attack to the head and body, referee Ricky Gonzalez stepped in and stopped the fight at the 1:17 mark of the round.
The victory was the biggest of Vargas’ career and came against the toughest opponent he has faced as a professional. The unbeaten 22-year-old showed patience throughout the fight, gradually wearing Mills down instead of looking for an early finish.
“I want a former world champion next or a title eliminator next. I know I’m ready,” said Emiliano.
“I’m just a young kid, 22 years of age just wanting to learn. We’ve been in the gym working on different things,” about him fighting southpaw. “I knew when I turned south, I saw it in his face.
“That aggression, he walked right into my straight left. He just kept on walking into it and we got the job done.
“I got my father, my uncle Roger. We knew what we wanted to do,” said Emiliano about wanting to surprise Mills.
“Bryce Mills is a warrior. That’s why he was going to keep on fighting.
“Sky’s The Limit,” said Vargas about his own potential.
The stoppage was the first loss inside the distance of Mills’ professional career and improved Vargas to 18-0 with his 15th knockout.
Dan Ambrose is a boxing journalist at Boxing News 24, recognized for his direct analysis and extensive coverage of the global fight landscape. His reporting focuses on major bouts, divisional developments, and the sport’s most discussed storylines.