Boxer Emiliano Vargas prepares to face Spain’s Juan Leon Sunday evening at the T-Mobile Arena. The fight is part of the undercard leading up to the undisputed junior-featherweight title bout between Naoya Inoue and Ramon Cardenas.
Vargas, 21, enters the eight-round junior welterweight contest with an unbeaten record of 13-0, including 11 knockouts. He trains in Las Vegas.
He is the son of former two-time world titleholder Fernando Vargas. The family connection contributes to his profile as a young professional fighter with only 13 fights.
Vargas recognizes the attention he receives early in his career. He noted to Boxingscene that his growing profile makes him a target for rivals.
The fight date coincides with Cinco de Mayo weekend, a time important to the Mexican-American community and American boxing. Vargas said he wants to take that date and finish strong. He grew up watching fighters like Saul Alvarez on this weekend.
His opponent, Leon, holds a record of 11-2-1 with two knockouts and fights out of Madrid. Vargas described Leon as having more experience and being more rounded.
Vargas added that Leon is a come-forward fighter who can take a punch. He plans to be smart in the ring and maybe touch the body.
Top Rank promotes Vargas, who has fought most of his pro bouts in Las Vegas and Southern California. Top Rank Vice President of Operations Carl Moretti said Vargas is just starting on his road but could become a superstar.
Fernando Vargas trains Emiliano, his older siblings, Fernando Jr. and Amado. Amado Vargas recently won a fight.
Leon said he is inspired to come here and give everything. He stated he is a brawler and comes to fight.
