FORMER three-time world super-bantamweight champion Israel Vazquez has died, aged 46. In early November, it was announced that Vazquez was facing the biggest battle of his life, battling Stage 4 Sarcoma, a malignant cancer tumor. Fundraisers were held, but it is a final battle that the Mexican warrior could not win. WBC president Mauricio Sulaiman tweeted the following message:
Thank you Israel for so many great memories you have given us through your actions in the ring but most importantly outside of it. Now you are eternal, rest in peace, everything will be fine. pic.twitter.com/Aa91vKT6cP
— Mauricio Sulaiman (@wbcmoro) December 3, 2024
Vazquez’s health concerns plagued him after he left the ring. In 2016, Vazquez had his right eye removed, citing his hard ring career, which was followed by neglect by his doctor and himself compounding the problems.
Nicknamed ‘Magnifico’, Vazquez hung up the gloves in 2010 after a third round loss to generational rival Rafael Marquez. While that fourth episode was a sad sight, their previous back-to-back match sequence is recognized as one of the greatest trilogies of all time. The punishing final four fights took a lot out of both men.
Born in Mexico City, Vazquez turned pro in 1995 and later settled in California. He endured two epic clashes with Oscar Larios, losing the first by last-round stoppage, before getting revenge in the third round of their rematch. His 2006 shutout of Jhonny Gonzalez was also a highlight. Israel went down with a record of 44-5 (32 KOs).
Everyone at Boxing News would like to extend their deepest sympathy and condolences to Vazquez’s family and friends.
