Bantamweight beltholder Antonio Vargas has been signed by Matchroom Boxing, who will co-promote the WBA champion with Boxlab Promotions.
Vargas is 19-1 (11 KOs) and won the interim title with victory over Winston Guerrero in Florida in December, before the WBA elevated him to their full title.
Part of the 2016 Team USA class who travelled to Rio De Janeiro, he was forced to climb off the canvas against Guerrero before winning in round 10.
He is close to announcing his next fight, his first title defense, but the 28-year-old was please to put pen to paper with Hearn.
“All glory to God for this opportunity,” said Vargas, who was born in Texas but moved to Kissimmee, Florida. “I’m so grateful to have the support of Boxlab Promotions and Matchroom as I take the next step in my journey.
“I know there is still so much work to be done, but I’m blessed to be surrounded by a team that believes in me. I am ready to defend my World title and continue to make everyone proud.”
Promoter Hearn added: “I’m delighted to welcome Antonio to the team. Antonio is in a great spot as the WBA ruler at 118lbs, there’s some huge fights in and around bantamweight for him.
“It is great to be working closely as always with our friend and partner Amaury Piedra on Antonio’s future, and with the backing of Matchroom and Boxlab, the sky is the limit for him.”