Mexican three-time world boxing champion Israel Vázquez has passed away at the age of 46 after a prolonged and anguished battle with cancer. He had previously been diagnosed with systemic sclerosis and, more recently, with sarcoma.
The WBC reported that it had arranged for the parents of "Magnífico" Vázquez to travel to the United States to support their son during his illness.
'Magnífico' held the WBC title twice, and it was WBC President Mauricio Sulaimán who confirmed the devastating news. "Israel Vázquez is finally resting in peace. May God give strength and support to his wife, Laura, his children, his family, and his friends during this difficult time. Thank you, Israel, for the many wonderful memories you gave us through your actions inside the ring, but more importantly, outside of it. You are now eternal. Rest in peace. Everything will be fine," said Sulaimán.
In recent months, the WBC had spearheaded a GoFundMe campaign to raise funds to support Vázquez's medical needs.
Vázquez made his professional debut at the age of 17 in 1995, retiring in 2010 with an impressive record of 44 wins (32 KOs) and 4 losses.
His legendary trilogy of fights against Rafael Márquez between 2007 and 2010 is regarded as one of the greatest in the history of Mexican and world boxing. Both fighters sacrificed their health and gave everything in the ring, ultimately securing their places in immortality in the International Boxing Hall of Fame in Canastota, New York.
Those of us who knew Israel Vázquez remember him as a great champion both inside and outside the ring—decent, reserved, and always attentive, with his own unique way of being.
Rest in peace, dear "Magnífico" Vázquez. Have a good journey.
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