Israel “El Magnífico” Vázquez, Mexican bantamweight boxer, dies at age 46

Israel Vázquez, three-time featherweight boxing champion, has died. He was 46.

World Boxing Council President Mauricio Sulaiman confirmed the athlete’s death in a post

“Israel Vazquez finally rests in peace,” Sulaiman wrote. “May God give strength and support to his wife Laura, their children, their family and their friends in these difficult times.”

Hailed as one of Mexico’s greatest boxers, Vázquez – also known as “El Magnífico” – was known for his punching power and lightning speed, as well as four title fights against his compatriot and rival Rafael Márquez, which took place from 2007 to 2010, Athletic reported.

According to the outlet, after losing the first fight, Vázquez regained his title five months later. A split decision fight in 2008 came at a price: the boxer suffered a detached retina that sidelined him for 19 months. In his last fight against Márquez and last fight as a boxer in 2010, Vázquez suffered a third-round knockout.

In a video posted on GoFundMe, Vázquez was praised for his courage. “Israel gave his heart for the fans, and physically it took a toll,” shared the video’s narrator.

Never miss a story again — sign up for PEOPLE’s free daily newsletter to stay up-to-date on the best of what PEOPLE has to offer, from celebrity news to compelling human interest stories.

In a total of 49 fights, Vázquez recorded 44 wins (including 32 knockouts), The Athletic reported.

According to the GoFundMe, the boxer leaves behind his wife Laura, sons Israel Jr. and Anthony, daughter Zoe as well as his parents, a sister and other family members.

His loved ones and fans now mourn the loss of the man whose epic battles in the ring inspired the world beyond. “Thank you very much, Israel, for the many great memories you have given us through your actions inside the ring, but especially outside,” said Sulaiman. “You are eternal now, rest in peace, everything will be okay.”

“Our champ passed away in peace,” wrote GoFundMe organizer Jill Diamond Chastain. “A man of compassion and humility, it is no coincidence that he left us on Giving Tuesday.”