The Japanese star arrives on the back of two missed chances to add to the WBC flyweight crown he held between 2017 and 2018 in his last two professional outings in the ring.

A narrow points loss to WBO title holder Yoshiki Takei last September was followed by a unanimous decision draw against WBA strap king Seiya Tsutsumi in February.

But Higa's performances have kept him firmly in the conversation, and as he prepares to face newly-upgraded star Vargas in Yokohama, the Okinawa-born star is ready again.

"I'm truly grateful for the opportunity to fight three times in a row [for world titles], even after a loss," he told The Ring through promoter Yusuke Ninomiya.

"I believe I must become a champion in order to move to the next stage. Winning the title will open the door to unification bouts and other exciting opportunities

"I’m determined to win this one and will absolutely become a world champion. I think [Vargas is] an aggressive fighter.

"His strength is his ability to finish the fight quickly once he senses his opponent is hurt. I'll stay focused and stick to my boxing style without letting my guard down."

Watch Itauma vs Whyte live on DAZN

You can watch Moses Itauma vs Dillian Whyte live on DAZN on August 16. More information is available here.