The WBC has announced the death of former champion Israel "Magnifico" Vazquez, who lost his battle with cancer at the age of 46. Vazquez campaigned as a professional from 1995 through 2010. He won the vacant IBF 122-pound tile in 2004 and the WBC version in 2005 with a win over Oscar Larios. Vazquez defeated multi-division champ Jhonny Gonzalez in 2006 and then moved onto a historic rivalry vs. Rafael Marquez that saw Vazquez win the middle two of four bouts. Prone to bad facial cuts, he retired after losing the fourth meeting, walking away with a record of 44-5. WBC president Mauricio Sulaiman wrote, "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 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."

 

Boxingtalk joins the WBC and boxing fans the world over in sending our deepest sympathies to the friends and family of the great  Israel Vazquez.