Three-time world champion Israel Vazquez passed away on Monday at the age of 46. His career and legacy will remain unforgotten.
On Monday, December 2, 2024, former world champion Israel Vazquez passed away at the age of 46. The Mexican was famous for his courage and his spectacular fights.
The career of Israel Vazquez
Israel Vazquez began his professional career in 1995 at the age of 17. His nickname “El Magnifico” reflected his exceptional skills. He fought a total of 49 fights, of which he won 44, 32 by knockout.
On March 25, Vazquez won the IBF super bantamweight title with a points victory over Jose Luis Valbuena. After defending his title twice, against Artyom Simonyan and Armando Guerrero, “Magnifico” made a bid for the WBC limit title against Oscar Larios on December 3, 2005. Marquez defeated his Mexican compatriot in three rounds by T.K.O. Two title defenses followed before he met the man who was to leave the most lasting impression in his career: Rafael Marquez.
Highlights: Trilogy against Rafael Marquez
In 2007 and 2008, Israel Vazquez and Marquez made boxing history. Their three consecutive fights for the WBC title are legendary. Vazquez wins the second and third clash. The second fight was named “Fight of the Year” by “The Ring Magazine” in 2007 and the third fight in the trilogy was named “Fight of the Year” by the Boxing Writers Association of America in 2008.
Serious illnesses
After a fourth fight against Rafael Marquez in 2010, Vazquez had to retire from boxing. Injuries, including a detached retina, led to the loss of his right eye. His health continued to deteriorate. In November 2023, he was diagnosed with cancer. “Magnifico” has now lost this final battle against the disease.
Farewell to a great fighter
The President of the World Boxing Council, Mauricio Sulaiman, said: “Thank you, Israel, for the many great memories you have given us in the ring, but especially outside the ring. You are an eternal one. Rest in peace. Everything will be alright.”
Legendary trainer Freddie Roach also paid tribute to his friend and all-time great, saying: “Always a world champion and a legend in boxing. One of the very best I’ve had the privilege to work with. Israel, my friend, rest in peace.”
Israel Vazquez will be remembered as one of the best fighters of his generation. His impressive performances make him immortal.
Text: Andreas Ohlberger