Israel “Magnifico” Vazquez, one of Mexico’s most beloved and respected boxing champions, has been diagnosed with terminal cancer, which has deeply moved the boxing community in Mexico and around the world. The former world champion, known for his bravery and aggressive style in the ring, is now facing the toughest battle of his life outside the ring after being diagnosed with stage 4 sarcoma.
The World Boxing Council (WBC) was the first to make the news public, through a message on its social networks, highlighting the seriousness of the situation. In its statement, the WBC expressed its solidarity with the former boxer and announced that it is working to bring his family from Mexico and ensure that he receives the medical care he needs. “Our beloved champion has received a devastating diagnosis. The WBC is by his side, supporting in every way possible,” the organization said.
WBC president Mauricio Sulaiman also showed his commitment to the cause, inviting the boxing community to join a support campaign. “Israel ‘Magnifico’ Vazquez is in the fight of his life,” Sulaiman wrote, encouraging everyone to contribute to the fundraising campaign on the GoFundMe platform “Support Israel Magnifico Vazquez against cancer”.
What is Israel ‘Magnifico’ Vázquez’s diagnosis?
The diagnosis of stage 4 sarcoma has left Israel Vazquez in a critical state of health. His wife, Laura Vazquez, shared with the Los Angeles Times details about her husband’s situation: “He can hardly speak and, when he does, he is short of breath. He is very weak,” she said, visibly affected. Despite his frailty, Israel has shown an unbreakable fighting spirit and has expressed his desire to be remembered for his legacy in boxing, not for his current condition.
Vazquez’s family has decided not to give up. Laura explained that they are looking for new treatment options with sarcoma specialists, as the first doctor who diagnosed him was not an expert in this type of cancer. “We were told he would have six months to live, but I’m not going to give up. We’re going to get a second opinion. We know there’s still hope,” she said firmly.
Israel ‘Magnifico’ Vazquez: His career, championships and battles in the ring
Israel Vazquez is one of the greatest figures in Mexican boxing, remembered for his ferocious style and unwavering resilience. During his career, he excelled in the super bantamweight division, where he won and defended the WBC world title on several occasions. Undoubtedly, his trilogy of fights against Rafael Marquez is one of the most epic in boxing history, full of excitement and rivalry, which marked an era in world boxing.
With an impressive record of 44 victories (32 by knockout) and only five defeats in 49 fights, Vazquez left an indelible mark on the sport. His legacy is remembered not only for his victories, but also for his warrior attitude, always willing to fight to the end.
In this difficult time, Israel’s family and the WBC have launched a fundraising campaign to help pay for Vazquez’s treatment. On the Stand with Israel “Magnifico” Vazquez Against Cancer page, boxing fans can make donations and leave messages of encouragement for the champion, who now needs everyone’s support to continue fighting for his life.
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