Three-time boxing champion who battled cancer dies at 46

Israel Vazquez died at age 46 from cancer / Reproduction

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Three-time boxing super bantamweight champion Israel Vazquez died on Tuesday (3) at the age of 46. The former Mexican boxer, also known as 'Magnífico', was unable to defeat the toughest opponent he faced in life: cancer. Vazquez leaves behind his wife Laura, sons Israel Jr. and Anthony, daughter Zoe, as well as his parents and sister.

'Magnífico' was known for his epic wars against fellow Mexican boxer Rafael Márquez. Israel finished his boxing career with a record of 44 wins (32 by knockout) and five losses. According to the Los Angeles Times, Vazquez was diagnosed with 'stage 4' sarcoma, a form of cancer with up to 70 different types. His battle with the disease was first revealed in a post on GoFundMe, in early November.

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About three weeks ago, Vázquez's wife declared that cancer had already left the former boxer very weak.

“He can barely speak and if he does, his breathing stops, he gets very weak,” Laura told LA Times.

World Boxing Council (WBC) president Mauricio Sulaiman made a post lamenting Vazquez's early departure.

“Israel Vazquez is finally resting in peace. May God give strength and support to his wife, Laura, his children, family and friends during these difficult times. Thank you, champion, for leaving such a special mark. You will always be the Magnificent,” Sulaiman wrote. (see below)

Israel Vazquez is finally resting in peace. May God give strength and support to his wife Laura, their children, family and friends during these difficult times. Thank you champion for leaving such a special mark. You will always be the Magnificent.

— Mauricio Sulaiman (@wbcmoro) December 3, 2024

Vazquez's former coach, Freddie Roach, also spoke out on social media.

“Israel, my friend, may you rest in peace now. My condolences to the Vazquez family and to all those who called Israel their friend,” he wrote.

During his career, Vazquez achieved memorable victories against great opponents, such as Óscar 'Chololo' Larios, with whom he starred in a trilogy. In 2002, he defeated Larios to win the WBC world title, and in 2004 he became the IBF super bantamweight world champion by defeating José Luis Valbuena at the Grand Olympic Auditorium in Los Angeles.