The boxing world is in mourning following the passing of former world super-bantamweight champion Israel Vazquez. The Mexican boxing legend, affectionately known as “Magnifico”, has died at the age of 46 after a brave battle with cancer.
Vazquez’s impressive 49-fight career was marked by numerous triumphs, including 44 wins and five defeats. He held the prestigious IBF, WBC, and The Ring super-bantamweight world titles, cementing his status as one of the greatest boxers of his generation.
One of the most notable aspects of Vazquez’s career was his thrilling rivalry with fellow Mexican boxer Rafael Marquez. The two boxing legends clashed four times between 2007 and 2010, with each fighter winning two bouts. Their epic encounters are still widely regarded as some of the greatest fights in recent boxing history.
Vazquez retired from boxing after his final fight against Marquez, leaving behind a legacy that continues to inspire boxers and fans around the world. Tributes have poured in from the boxing community, with WBC president Mauricio Sulaiman leading the condolences.
“Thank you Israel for so many great memories that you have given us through your actions inside the ring but most importantly outside of it,” Sulaiman wrote on social media. “You are now eternal, rest in peace, everything will be all right.”
