Israel Vázquez Dies at 46 After Cancer Diagnosis
Israel “Magnifico” Vázquez died on December 3, 2024, at age 46, after a battle with stage 4 sarcoma. His career included three memorable fights with Rafael Márquez.
The diagnosis and his passing
The World Boxing Council announced in November 2024 that Vázquez was battling cancer. His wife, Laura, told the Los Angeles Times that doctors had diagnosed stage 4 sarcoma. Vázquez died the following month. The WBC announced his death and remembered him as a three-time super-bantamweight world champion.
A four-fight rivalry and a 44-5 record
Vázquez finished his professional career with a record of 44 wins, five losses and 32 knockouts. He won world titles at super bantamweight and was known for his four-fight series with fellow Mexican Rafael Márquez from 2007 to 2010. They each won twice. The WBC has described the bouts as an enduring part of both fighters’ legacies.
Fundraising context
The treatment fundraiser mentioned in the original 2024 article was launched during Vázquez’s illness. After his death, WBC Cares reported on a January 2025 fundraiser event that supported his wife and children. That later event is documented in the WBC Cares report.
Sources: Los Angeles Times on his diagnosis and family’s account; Reuters on his death; WBC memorial and career record; WBC Cares family fundraiser report.
Sources
Tags: Boxing, Combat Sports
