Three-time world champion super bantamweight boxer Israel Vazquez has 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 December 3.
“Thank you Israel for giving us so many great memories through your actions inside the ring and most importantly outside the ring. You are now forever, rest in peace, all is well.” I will go,” Sulaiman wrote.
Vazquez's diagnosis was made public in November.
“May God give strength and support to my wife Laura, children, family and friends during this difficult time,” Sulaiman continued.
Thank you Israel for giving us so many great memories through your actions inside the ring and most importantly outside the ring. You are now forever, rest in peace, everything will be fine. pic.twitter.com/Aa91vKT6cP
— Mauricio Sulaiman (@wbcmoro) December 3, 2024
Vazquez's former trainer Freddie Roach paid tribute to the fallen star, sharing a touching message on Twitter.
“He's an eternal world champion and a boxing legend,” Roach said. “One of the best boxers I've ever had the privilege of working with, a world champion. Rest in peace now, Israel. My condolences to the Vasquez family and everyone who called Israel a friend. I would like to express my gratitude.”
LAS VEGAS – SEPTEMBER 16: Israel Vazquez celebrates his victory over Mexico's Johnny Gonzalez after their WBC super bantamweight title fight on September 16, 2006 at the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas, Nevada. Vasquez defeated Gonzalez by TKO in the 10th round to defend his title. (Photo by Ethan Miller/Getty Images)
Vazquez, known as “Magnifico” in the ring, had a total of 44 wins during his career, 32 of which were by knockout. He lost only five times.
Super bantamweight, also known as junior featherweight, is a weight classification for competitors weighing between 118 and 122 pounds.
He is an eternal world champion and a boxing legend. One of the best boxers I've ever had the privilege of working with, a world champion. O Israel, rest in peace now. My condolences go out to the Vasquez family and all those who called Israel a friend. #Magnifico @WildCardBoxing1 pic.twitter.com/8uclWtUrXG
— Freddie Roach (@FreddieRoach) December 3, 2024
LAS VEGAS – SEPTEMBER 16: Israel Vazquez celebrates after defeating Johnny Gonzalez after his WBC super bantamweight title fight at MGM Grand Garden Arena on September 16, 2006 in Las Vegas, Nevada. Vasquez defeated Gonzalez by TKO in the 10th round to defend his title. (Photo by Ethan Miller/Getty Images)
WBC is GoFundMe campaign supported the fighter when his diagnosis was first revealed. To date, more than $44,000 of the $75,000 goal has been met.
No funeral information had been released as of early Tuesday afternoon. (Related: Eminem's mother dies at 69: Report)
Other fans and friends also flooded social media with tributes to Vazquez.
