DANNY GARCIA is hoping his fellow welterweight world champions view him as ‘vulnerable’ as he prepares for his December 12 meeting with overmatched Samuel Vargas.

It will be Garcia’s first outing since he won the vacant WBC 147lb title against Robert Guerrero in January, though his title will not be on the line against Vargas.

Provided Garcia moves past Vargas as expected, he is mooted to face WBA champion Keith Thurman next year and the Philadelphia native hopes he can lull the other top welters into a false sense of security.

“People are acting like Keith Thurman has a cape like Superman and can fly,” he said. “I want the other champions to think I’m vulnerable. Those are my easiest fights. I have to get past this fight to get to the next one.

“I can’t look past Samuel Vargas and I know his trainer has a couple tricks up his sleeve. I know they’re going to come to fight, but I will never underestimate anyone. I’ve learned my lessons to become the champion I am today.

“I know Vargas knows how to win. He’s won a lot in his career. I’m going to go out there and just fight. If it goes the distance, then it does. I can’t underestimate him. I’m going to put on a great show and dominate.”

Garcia has rightfully come under fire for his choice of opponent, and the fight is largely being viewed as more of a showcase for Garcia in his hometown rather than a competitive matchup.

Last year Vargas was drilled in four rounds by Errol Spence, who was still viewed as just a prospect at the time.

Though Garcia has notched some notable wins in his career, mismatches against the likes of Rod Salka and Vargas have plagued his reputation. However he remains loyal to his team and insists he will unify the welterweight division.

“I feel like I owe this to my fans to fight in Philadelphia. The last time I fought at this venue was on a Bernard Hopkins undercard and I got a big knockout. I plan on doing the same November 12,” he continued.

“I have a good team around me. There should be no distractions leading up to this fight. All the people who deserve to get tickets will be there and there won’t be anything distracting me. I’m 100 percent focused on this matchup.

“I’m at the point in my career where I’m working smarter and harder. Come November 12 we want to give the city of Philadelphia a night to remember. I can’t overlook this fight, but I guarantee that I’m going to unify titles at 147lbs soon.”