Former three-time boxing world champion Israel Vazquez has been diagnosed with cancer, officials announced Wednesday.
“Our hearts are heavy as we share the news that our beloved champion Israel Vasquez is battling cancer. A warrior in the ring and a hero in life, Israel is with me now more than ever. We need your support.” statement This is what the World Boxing Council (WBC) says:
Vazquez, known in boxing circles as “Magnifico,” retired in May 2010 after his last fight with fellow Mexican boxer Rafael Marquez. Vazquez has a record of 44 wins, 32 knockouts and 5 losses in 49 professional fights.
WBC has gofundme For a former boxer.
“Let us stand together and show that Israel is backed into a corner. Every contribution, no matter how small, can have a big impact,” the statement continues.
The fundraiser had raised more than $17,000 as of Friday afternoon. (Related: Boxer may lose eye after protecting young man from violence).
An Instagram post from @SupremeBoxing read, “He has always been a beacon of kindness, humility, and strength, spreading joy to everyone who was lucky enough to know him.” are. “He faced each day with courage and showed us what it means to fight for life with grace and optimism. But his medical bills have been staggering. I did.”
“One of my greatest world champions, Israel, we are all thinking of you and wishing you good health. Keep punching!” Vazquez’s former trainer Freddie Roach wrote in a comment. .
“Keep punching, Israel. Keep fighting!” Roach said Posted on his own Instagram account.
“Dear Israel – We are rooting for you and sending you many thoughts, prayers and positivity in your fight against cancer…As with every battle you have fought, we We are rooting for you in this fight,” the statement continues.
Vazquez thrilled the boxing crowd in the 2000s by fighting his rival Marquez, the younger brother of boxing legend Juan Manuel Marquez, four times throughout his career. According to Basically for sports.
The 46-year-old has won the WBC super bantamweight title twice, first against Oscar Larios in 2005 and then again in a 2007 rematch after losing to Marquez.
