By Natalia Rueda 
The former three-time world super bantamweight champion is remembered for his courage and legacy in the ring
The boxing world is in mourning following the death of Israel “El Magnifico” Vasquez, the iconic Mexican boxer whose incredible career and tireless spirit made him a beloved figure in the sport. Vasquez, 46, passed away at his home in California after a courageous battle with cancer. His death was confirmed by the president of the World Boxing Council (WBC), Mauricio Sulaiman, who broke the news in the early hours of Tuesday morning.
Vazquez was a three-time super bantamweight world champion and a symbol of determination both inside and outside the ring. Over the course of his 49-fight career, Vasquez amassed a remarkable record of 44 wins, including 32 knockouts, and only five losses. Vasquez’s death marks the end of an era for the sport, as his rise to fame was a testament to his indomitable will and unwavering spirit in the ring. The fight against sarcoma, it turned out, proved too tough a battle to win, despite Vasquez’s remarkable resilience.
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. Gracias campeón por dejar una huella tan especial. Siempre serás el Magnífico
— Mauricio Sulaiman (@wbcmoro) December 3, 2024
In November Vasquez made public his battle with cancer. Mauricio Sulaiman with the backing of the WBC created a GoFundMe account to help the boxer and his family called “Support Israel Magnifico Vasquez against cancer,” which has raised $44,000 to date. After years of battling physical setbacks, Vasquez’s retirement from active competition in 2010 was a bittersweet moment for boxing fans who had watched him transform into a living legend.