Emiliano Vargas Stops Bryce Mills, Calls For Former World Champion Next

The unbeaten 22-year-old broke down Bryce Mills in four rounds before demanding a former world champion or title eliminator after the biggest win of his career

Emiliano Vargas took the biggest step of his career on Saturday night, stopping previously unbeaten Bryce Mills in four rounds at Barclays Center in Brooklyn. The unbeaten 22-year-old retained three regional titles before declaring he wants a former world champion or title eliminator in his next fight.

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.