Rey Vargas Overcomes Mark Magsayo Knockdown To Achieve WBC Title
Tonight, at the Alamodome in San Antonio, Rey Vargas was able to edge out Mark Magsayo by way of split decision following an entertaining back and forth battle. Throughout the twelve-round affair, Vargas displayed a diverse arsenal that carried him through the fight, and ultimately lead to him exiting the ring as the new WBC featherweight champion of the world.
In the first few rounds of the bout, it was easy to see that Vargas’ height, reach and unorthodox style was going to create some frustrating problems for Magsayo. Despite these advantages, Magsayo was still able to load up and cleanly land some heavy shots, but more often Vargas would step just out of range of the Filipino’s power punches and consistently counter with strikes of his own. It quickly became evident that Magsayo’s only chance at victory in this match was to land the power shot that would put Vargas down for the count.
As the competitors entered the ninth round, it had been an exciting back and forth battle, but Vargas was clearly in control of the action with the way he was following Magsayo’s misses with precise shots to the body. With Vargas clearly becoming more confident with the challenge in front of him, the opportunity for Magsayo to connect with his power opened up.
As Vargas stepped in to land an uppercut to the body, just like he had been all fight, Magsayo read the situation perfectly and landed a nasty right hand that sent Vargas to the canvas. While this knockdown did not finish the fight, it was desperately needed by Magsayo to keep victory on the judges’ scorecards within the realm of possibility.
WHAT A ROUND 😮@markmagsayo_MMM DROPS Vargas in round 9.#MagsayoVargas pic.twitter.com/KKnniosCR8
— SHOWTIME Boxing (@ShowtimeBoxing) July 10, 2022
Following the highlight reel knockdown, Magsayo continued to have inconsistent degrees of success with his power punching. Through strategy, timing, and a diverse skill set, Vargas was able to control things through the championship rounds, and ultimately take home the victory.
AND THE NEW 🏆@reyvargasbox scores a decision win over Magsayo to become the WBC featherweight world champ after an incredible fight 🙌#MagsayoVargas pic.twitter.com/25N7Cdjaxy
— SHOWTIME Boxing (@ShowtimeBoxing) July 10, 2022
Through this victory, Vargas has added a 36th win to his undefeated record, while Magsayo suffered the first loss in his 25 fight career.
Official Result: Rey Vargas def. Mark Magsayo via Split Decision (115-112, 114-113, 115-12)