Israel Vazquez, three-time world champion boxer in the super bantamweight division, died at the age of 46 after a battle with cancer.
World Boxing Council (WBC) President Mauricio Sulaiman confirmed the death of the famous Mexican boxer on Dec. 3.
“Thank you Israel for the so many great memories that you have given us through your actions inside the ring but most importantly outside of it. You are now eternal , rest in peace, everything will be all right,” Sulaiman wrote.
Vazquez’ diagnosis was made public in November.
“May God give strength and support to his wife Laura, their children, family and friends during these difficult times,” Sulaiman continued.
Thank you Israel for the so many great memories that you have given us through your actions inside the ring but most importantly outside of it. You are now eternal , rest in peace, everything will be all right. pic.twitter.com/Aa91vKT6cP
— Mauricio Sulaiman (@wbcmoro) December 3, 2024
Vazquez’ former trainer, Freddie Roach, shared a touching message on Twitter as he paid tribute to the fallen star.
“Forever a world champion and legend in boxing,” Roach said. “One of the best boxers I ever had the privilege of working with – a world champion. Israel, may you rest in peace now. Condolences to the Vázquez family and to all those who called Israel their friend.”
LAS VEGAS – SEPTEMBER 16: Israel Vazquez celebrates after defeating Jhonny Gonzalez of Mexico after their WBC super bantamweight titile fight at the MGM Grand Garden Arena September 16, 2006 in Las Vegas, Nevada. Vazquez retained his title after defeating Gonzalez by TKO in the 10th round. (Photo by Ethan Miller/Getty Images)
Vazquez, known as “Magnifico” in the ring, had a total of 44 wins over the course of his career, with 32 by way of knockout. He was only defeated five times.
Super bantamweight, also known as junior featherweight, is a weight classification for competitors who are between 118 and 122 pounds.
Forever a world champion and legend in boxing. One of the best boxers I ever had the privilege of working with – a world champion. Israel, may you rest in peace now. Condolences to the Vázquez family and to all those who called Israel their friend. #Magnifico @WildCardBoxing1 pic.twitter.com/8uclWtUrXG
— Freddie Roach (@FreddieRoach) December 3, 2024
LAS VEGAS – SEPTEMBER 16: Israel Vazquez celebrates after defeating Jhonny Gonzalez after their WBC super bantamweight titile fight at the MGM Grand Garden Arena September 16, 2006 in Las Vegas, Nevada. Vazquez retained his title after defeating Gonzalez by TKO in the 10th round. (Photo by Ethan Miller/Getty Images)
The WBC set up a GoFundMe campaign to support the fighter when his diagnosis was first revealed. To date, over $44,000 of the $75,000 goal has been reached.
Information pertaining to funeral services has not been publicly shared as of Tuesday early afternoon. (RELATED: Eminem’s Mother Dead At 69: REPORT)
Other fans and friends have flooded social media with tributes to Vazquez.
