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    Oleksandr Usyk shows off incredible ‘reflexes of a cat’ and ripped physique just 17 days before Tyson Fury rematch

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    OLEKSANDR USYK has once again showcased his incredible ‘Cat’ like reflexes ahead of his rematch with Tyson Fury.The unified heavyweight champion is just days away from renewing his rivalry with the Gypsy King in a second successive Saudi showdown.Oleksandr Usyk renews his rivalry with Tyson Fury later this monthCredit: GETTYUsyk has been using coins to work on hand-eye co-ordination ahead of the fightCredit: INSTAGRAM@USYKAAThe unified heavyweight champ chucked six coins in the air after balancing them on his armsCredit: INSTAGRAM@USYKAAThe 37-year-old managed to catch all the coins before they hit the floorCredit: INSTAGRAM@USYKAAUsyk, 37, has been deploying an array of unorthodox training methods to keep his hands and eyes sharp for the Riyadh rumble.And he recently stunned boxing fans by showing off his incredible coin-catching ability.The slick southpaw recently shared footage of himself balancing six coins on the back of his hands and forearms to his Instagram page.And he stunned his followers by throwing them all up in the air and catching them before they hit the ground.READ MORE ON USYK VS FURY 2Usyk’s fans were quick to comment on his incredible agility, with one saying: “A Cat reflexes.”Another said: “Very impressive.”One remarked: “Very feel.”Another chimed in: “I don’t think he needs to worry about catching money at this point. I think he’s got enough!”Most read in BoxingBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSUsyk then showcased his hulking physique for his second dance with Fury, posting a flexing post-training snapUsyk became the first undisputed heavyweight champion in nearly 25 years in May with a split-decision victory over Fury.Moment Tyson Fury tells Oleksandr Usyk ‘you look like a sexy beast’ as heavyweight boxer shows off new lookThe former king of the cruiserweight struggled in the early goings but nearly knocked out Fury in the ninth round of the desert dust-up after rattling him with a hellacious left hand.Fury, 36, was adamant he did enough to win the match and claimed the judges gave Usyk the nod because Ukraine are at “war” with Russia.He’s refused to retract the comments, saying: “No, I don’t regret anything.”Why would I regret that? Listen it was a close fight. “Usyk got the [hand] raised like he just said and he won the fight. Fair play to him.Oleksandr Usyk looks to be in tip-top shape ahead of his rematch with Tyson FuryCredit: INSTAGRAM@DANIEL.LAPINFury has vowed to exact his revenge on the unified heavyweight champCredit: GETTY”[I] don’t make excuses. The man beat me on the night – fair play. I believe I won the fight and that’s my opinion.”Just like if you had an opinion, he had an opinion and everybody had an opinion.”But he got his hand raised and I congratulated him. It’s on TV to see.READ MORE SUN STORIES”I kissed his cross and said thank you very much and happy New Year.”When we go again, we go again.” More

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      Tyson Fury, 36, and Wladimir Klitschko, 48, lined up for ‘dream’ rematch in bid to break heavyweight boxing record

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      WLADIMIR KLITSCHKO is being lined up with a stunning rematch against Tyson Fury in a bid to make boxing history. The Ukrainian great was dethroned by Fury in a famous 2015 upset, before retiring two years later after defeat to Anthony Joshua. Wladimir Klitschko and Tyson Fury could sensationally rematchCredit: News Group Newspapers LtdBut Klitschko has been linked with a comeback, most recently to challenge IBF champion Daniel Dubois. Now Saudi Arabia’s boxing supremo Turki Alalshikh is plotting a remarkable rematch between Klitschko, 48, and Fury, 36. That is dependant on whether Fury defeats Oleksandr Usyk in their December 21 rematch for the WBC, WBA and WBO world title. Victory would then offer Klitschko the chance to break George Foreman’s record of oldest heavyweight champ, set at 46. READ MORE IN BOXINGAlalshikh said on the Ariel X Ade Show: “The result of Tyson vs [Oleksandr] Usyk, a lot of people are waiting for them.”One of them is Dubois. Another is Joshua. At the same time, there is a third person.“I am dreaming of seeing this fight to give chance if he accepts to give Klitschko to give back to be the oldest heavyweight champion ever.”To give him the chance. This is perfect. Of course, he won’t fight Usyk if he wins because they’re two heroes from Ukraine will not fight each other. This is the dream.Most read in BoxingCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERS”Fury has a lot of people that want him in the line. Klitschko, all the people want to see it from 2015 again.”And there’s also Joshua, which would be the hugest Britain fight ever [against Fury]. Of course, Dubois deserves this chance. Let’s see.”Moment Tyson Fury tells Oleksandr Usyk ‘you look like a sexy beast’ as heavyweight boxer shows off new lookForeman was 45 when he knocked out Michael Moorer to become boxing’s oldest heavyweight champ before losing it a year later. Klistchko meanwhile retired following an 11th-round stoppage loss to Joshua, snubbing a lucrative rematch. Oleksandr Usyk rematches Fury on December 21Credit: Reuters More

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      Darren Till makes bold Tyson Fury sparring claim that suggests he may already have the edge over Tommy Fury

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      DARREN TILL has claimed his takedown of Tyson Fury shows he has what it takes to beat brother Tommy.Till, 31, faces off against Love Island star Tommy, 25, in the boxing ring on January 18 in Manchester.Darren Till claims beating Tommy Fury will be easy given he has taken down brother Tyson in sparringCredit: PATommy will face off against Till in Manchester next monthCredit: AlamyFootage of Till and Tyson sparring has been released to the publicThe pair clashed at last month’s press conference as Tommy’s dad John also got involved in winding up the former UFC star.But while Tommy is the heavy favourite to beat Till, the Liverpudlian has cited his sparring with he reality star’s brother Tyson as a reason as to why he should not be underestimated.In 2019, Till gave former WBC champion Tyson an MMA lesson in the octagon while the heavyweight was still negotiating a second fight with Deontay Wilder.The clip included Till taking The Gypsy King down, a moment he has spoken about in the lead-up to his showdown with Tommy.READ MORE IN BOXINGSpeaking to Norske Bettingsider, he said: “It was just tongue in cheek, and it’s on YouTube. You can see me and him sparring.”We’re just having a little mess around, but I go for the takedown, and, you know, obviously just take him down easily.”So if I can take Tyson down, I can definitely take little John down and Tommy, can’t I?”He added: “Here’s the thing. I’m a realist. Nobody in that press conference was a threat to me – not John, not Tommy. Because if I want to turn, and I turn, and if someone punches me, I’ll kick them in the face. I will.Most read in BoxingCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERS”I can get my leg up as quick as a jab. I’ll kick them in the face, take them down, and then they’re in a world of trouble.”People like to laugh and joke, ‘Oh, Till got taken down by Driccus Du Plesis’, he’s the current UFC middleweight champion. I have only ever been beaten by the best fighters on planet earth.Tommy Fury and Darren Till clash at Misfits Boxing press conference “Nobody who’s not the best can beat me. And I have beat the best.”Let’s not get it twisted out here about what my caliber of fighting IQ level is. I never, ever lost outside the UFC. Not in Brazil, not in England, not anywhere.”There’s only a few people who are capable of that s***.”Fury has a professional record of 10-0 ahead of the January clash, having beaten the likes of Jake Paul and KSI.Till swapped the octagon for the squared circle after he parted ways with the UFC in March 2023.He made his boxing debut in July 2024 against Mohammad Mutie, which he won via third-round stoppage.But his debut in the sport was marred by a mass brawl after the fight was waved off. More

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      Mike Tyson’s ex-coach opens up on boxing’s legend’s bizarre ‘biting fixation’ after chewing on glove in Jake Paul fight

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      MIKE TYSON’S ex-coach has opened up on the boxing legend’s bizarre “biting fixation” which was on show against Jake Paul. Tyson infamously sunk his teeth into Evander Holyfield’s ear in their 1997 rematch and got himself disqualified. Mike Tyson bites his glove against Jake PaulCredit: XAnd sensationally over 27 years later and Tyson was up to his old tricks – this time with some restraint.Throughout his controversial comeback bout against YouTuber-turned-boxer Paul – Tyson was seen chewing on his glove. And his old amateur trainer Teddy Atlas revealed it has been something the heavyweight great has always done. Atlas said on his YouTube channel: “That’s something he did in his amateur days, pro days, and now, of course, he’s done it again. READ MORE IN BOXING”For people that follow Mike Tyson and his career, they’ve seen it before. “People were saying, ‘Tyson’s smart, he’s witty. He knows what to say and the importance of having that image’.”It’s more like a pacifier. Look, everyone gets nervous, even Mike Tyson. Everyone gets doubtful, even Mike Tyson. “Everyone gets scared, even Mike Tyson… You bite down on something. Why? To suppress those feelings. To suppress the doubts.Most read in BoxingJake Paul vs Mike Tyson round-by-roundMIKE TYSON’s long-awaited return to the ring didn’t have the fairytale ending fight fans dreamed of.SunSport’s boxing expert Wally Downes Jr recaps one of the drabbest and most forgettable nights in boxing history.And he didn’t hold back, issuing a scathing assessment of social media sensation Jake Paul.Round OnePaul says “I love you, Mike” just before the opening bell sounds. He quickly runs away and holds the boxing legend.Tyson draws a big reaction from the crowd as he lands a jab and a good right hand.Verdict: 10-9 TysonRound TwoPaul ran away in the opener and held – just like we thought he would.Tommy Fury had it first and now Mike Tyson. It’s clever because Tyson will tire. Paul tags Tyson’s body with a straight right.Tyson looks spent now. 180 seconds in and the fight looks over.Verdict: 10-9 TysonRound ThreeThe legend cannot even keep his gumshield in. As expected it’s a waste of time. Paul has run away until the 58-year-old has tired.Shooting ducks in a barrel now. Tyson might get hurt here. Paul lands a couple of clumsy shots and Tyson wobbles backwards.Tragic after three.Verdict: 10-9 PaulRound FourThis is proper rubbish. The crowd are bored and boos are being heard.This is just two tired big lumps going at it.  One a legend, one a promoter.Verdict 10-9 PaulRound FivePaul jabs the body and aims right for the head and another one-two clips the icon.Tyson cannot keep his mouthpiece in, he is gasping for air. Paul lands a left hook but then so does Tyson.Verdict 10-9 PaulRound SixThank God these weren’t three-minute rounds. We are getting about four punches per round.Tyson is gasping in the air but replays show a left hook did graze Paul’s beard.Verdict 10-9 PaulRound SevenTyson slips a jab and tries an uppercut. The commentator admits it has been a “sad” spectacle.The AT&T stadium has been utterly stunk out. Paul is looking just as tired as Tyson.Verdict 10-9 PaulRound EightGo back to YouTube, Jake. You’re an excellent conman. But you’ve never been a boxer.The Judges decide: 80-72, 79-73 and 79-73. I’m glad Tyson gets paid and has stayed safe.But what a laughable performance from Paul to add to his stinker with Tommy Fury.Verdict 10-9 PaulSunSport’s final scorecard – 78-74 for Jake PaulClick to read the full round-by-round breakdown.CASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERS”To suppress the nervousness, the uneasiness, the insecurity… that’s what it is.”Tyson, 58, returned after almost 20 YEARS away from professional boxing to face Paul, 27. Jake Paul teases major career change from boxing to follow in footsteps of brother Logan despite beating Mike Tyson The fight was slammed amid the age gap but still over 100MILLION tuned in on Netflix while 72,000 were in attendance in Texas. And Tyson addressed his constant chewing of his glove in the immediate aftermath of losing the eight-round bout on points. He said: “I have a habit of biting my gloves when I fight. I have a biting fixation.”Jake Paul and Mike Tyson embrace after their fightCredit: AP More

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      Tommy Fury faces missing out on multi-million pound Jake Paul fight as rematch offer is revealed

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      TOMMY FURY has been told to get realistic or face losing out on millions to rematch Jake Paul. Fury became the first and so far only to defeat Paul after winning their February 2023 grudge match by split-decision in Saudi Arabia. Tommy Fury faces missing out on a lucrative rematch with Jake PaulCredit: SplashJake Paul is coming off victory over Mike TysonCredit: GettyAnd the two have since been linked with a rematch with talks progressing throughout this year. Fury, 25, last fought in October 2023 defeating Paul’s arch YouTube rival KSI, 31, via controversial decision. But he was sidelined with a hand injury which required surgery and now returns on January 18 against ex-UFC star Darren Till, 31. Paul meanwhile has won five times since losing to Fury – most recently beating 58-year-old boxing icon Mike Tyson. READ MORE IN BOXINGBut initially Fury was tabled a deal to face Paul in what was Netflix’s first move into live boxing.Paul claimed on social media that an offer of $8million (£6.3m) was turned down by Fury. And the American’s promotional partner Nakisa Bidarian warned Fury runs the risk of pricing himself out of the rematch. He told SunSport: “Jake has offered Tommy millions and millions of dollars, a lot more than he’s getting paid to fight Darren.Most read in BoxingCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERS”You could make the argument that they think the fight is worth more. “And we’ve always said to them, if you think it’s worth more, show up with the money and let us know.KSI’s boxing coach discusses YouTuber’s next fight, Jake Paul and Tommy Fury”I had a US journalist text me, I don’t know when Jake put out that tweet about having made Tommy an $8million offer that was rejected.”And a journalist hit me up and said that’s like a step backwards for Jake – Tommy Fury has been nowhere since Jake Paul.”And I don’t necessarily agree with that, but what I will say is, we’re certainly not going to do something that doesn’t make economical sense, right?”So to the extent that Tommy Fury and his advisers can be realistic around what the fight is worth as far as they’re concerned, of course, Jake wants to do that fight.”But we’re certainly not going to overpay a guy who’s been inactive, is fighting an MMA guy that has zero pay-per-view star power. Zero.”And again, love Darren Till but he’s never sold a pay-per-view in his life. It’s not gonna be something that happens.”So I think the message is; absolutely Jake wants to rematch Tommy Fury. If it makes business sense. “And business sense means Tommy, you’re gonna get paid millions and millions of dollars to try and show the world that, you know, you really are better than Jake Paul.”Fury was the first opponent of Paul’s with a recognised professional boxing record before it ended in defeat. But he answered critics of his opposition by defeating 10-1 Andre August and 17-2 Ryan Bourland over the past year. The controversial clash with Tyson – slammed over the age gap – then followed with over 100MILLION watching on Netflix and 72,000 in attendance.It leaves the direction of Paul’s boxing career unclear – but Most Valuable Promotions co-founder Bidarian insists winning a world title is top of the list.He added: “Jake’s number one priority is to be a world champion, but equally Jake and MVP like to be disruptive and do massive crossover cultural events.”Even if you look at 2023 the Nate Diaz event from a mainstream coverage perspective was bigger than WrestleMania 39, was bigger than WrestleMania 40, was bigger than just about any event from a mainstream coverage perspective.”I’m not saying pay-per-views because as you know, the fan base of these younger athletes likes to steal content versus to pay for content.READ MORE SUN STORIES”But in terms of social media impressions, in terms of reach, in terms of, as I said, kind of just online interest.”So we we’ll continue to to explore massive cross cultural opportunities while really focused on him becoming a champion.”Jake Paul was beaten by Tommy Fury in 2023Credit: Reuters More

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      Jake Paul in talks with five opponents including ex-world champion as date for YouTube star’s next fight targeted

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      JAKE PAUL is in talks with FIVE potential opponents – with dates and venues already pencilled in for his next fight. The YouTuber-turned-boxer defeated heavyweight great Mike Tyson in November over eight shorter two-minute rounds. Jake Paul and promotional partner Nakisa BidarianCredit: GettyAnd already Paul is weighing up his options for his return bout, which is set to come within five-eight months time. His promotional partner Nakisa Bidarian told SunSport: “In terms of his timeline to return, we’ve talked about anything from April to July.”We have a number of venues held through that time period and then we’re just having different discussions with potential opponents.”Tyson, 58, made his return after nearly 20 YEARS away from professional boxing to face Paul, 27. READ MORE IN BOXINGAnd despite the controversy surrounding the clash amid the age gap, over 100 MILLION tuned in on Netflix and 72,000 packed out the Dallas stadium. It was also Paul’s first fight at heavyweight, having jumped from the 200lb cruiserweight limit of 14st 4lb to scale 16st 2lb (227lb). But the American social media sensation is looking to move back down in weight for his next bout. Julio Cesar Chavez Jr, 38, told Mexican media that he was sent an offer to fight Paul. Most read in BoxingCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERSBut Bidarian said: “So, I will say that we have not made an offer to any potential next opponent for Jake Paul.”And there is probably four or five different names that we’re considering at this point in time, but no one has received an offer of verbal written, indicative, nothing.Jake Paul’s girlfriend Jutta Leerdam steals the show in revealing slit dress for Mike Tyson fight”But yeah, I think Chavez is definitely someone that we had on our card and Tampa strategically to introduce him to Jake’s ecosystem of fans and absolutely is a potential fight for Jake Paul at some point.”Chavez is the son of Mexican icon Julio Cesar Sr and formerly held the WBC middleweight world championship. But he has endured commitment and substance abuse issues, even having stint in rehab. He was beaten by UFC legend Anderson Silva in 2021 – the Brazilian Paul defeated on points a year later. But Chavez returned with victory over MMA star Uriah Hall, 40, on Paul’s undercard in July and has since called out the 11-1 celebrity. Julio Cesar Chavez Jr is in talks to fight Jake PaulCredit: Esther Lin/MVP More

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      Moment Tyson Fury tells Oleksandr Usyk ‘you look like a sexy beast’ as heavyweight boxer shows off new look

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      TYSON FURY dubbed Oleksandr Usyk a “sexy beast” after getting a closer peek at his new look.The former undisputed heavyweight champion stunned boxing fans in October when he turned up to a pre-fight press conference dressed as Agent 47 from the ‘Hitman’ video game series.Tyson Fury and Oleksandr Usyk will renew their rivalry later this monthCredit: GETTYUnified heavyweight champ Usyk showcased a bold new look at a pre-fight press conference in OctoberCredit: REUTERSFury claimed Uysk looks like a ‘sexy beast’ with his bald headCredit: YOUTUBE@DAZNUsyk couldn’t help but chuckle at Fury’s bizarre complimentCredit: YOUTUBE@DAZNUsyk, 37, even shaved off all his hair in homage to the beloved video game character.And Fury said of Usyk’s new look with a smile on his face: “He looks like a sexy beast.””It suits him. The shaved him suits him. He looks sexy.”Explaining his new barnet, or lack of one, undefeated Ukrainian Usyk said: “Hair has a memory.READ MORE ON FURY VS USYK 2″Because my first fight [with Tyson] is in the past. And now, it’s the present and my focus is the 21st of December.”Fury and Usyk will run back their classic May melee in Saudi Arabia, although not all the heavyweight marbles will be on the line.Slick southpaw Usyk became the first undisputed king of the heavyweights in nearly 25 years courtesy of a split decision victory.Fury fumed in the aftermath of his first professional defeat, claiming Usyk was gifted the decision as his country is “at war” with Russia.Most read in BoxingBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSAnd the Wythenshawe warrior WON’T walk back on his comments, saying: “No, I don’t regret anything.”Why would I regret that? Listen it was a close fight. Usyk got the [hand] raised like he just said and he won the fight. Fair play to him.’Horror movie’ trailer for Tyson Fury vs Usyk II released ahead of fight as fans hail ‘best one yet'”[I] don’t make excuses. The man beat me on the night – fair play. I believe I won the fight and that’s my opinion.”Just like if you had an opinion, he had an opinion and everybody had an opinion.”But he got his hand raised and I congratulated him. It’s on TV to see.”I kissed his cross and said thank you very much and happy New Year When we go again, we go again.”Fury insists he bears no ill will to Usyk, adding: “There’s no animosity, I don’t hate Usyk. He’s a good God-fearing Christian family man.”Why would I hate him? And he’s made me millions of dollars. I love him. I’ve got no hate.Tyson Fury has vowed to exact his revenge on Oleksandr Usyk later this monthCredit: GETTY”You can’t make hate between these two. He’s a boxer, I’m a boxer; it was a great fight.”Regardless of the decision. I’ve said this a million times, that’s fantastic for him and his family. Well done, congratulations.”Like you said, God gave him the result. Fantastic. But regardless of that, even from my point of view, it was a great fight to watch for the fans.”I’m sure that they were entertained. It had everything.READ MORE SUN STORIES”It had me doing great things, him doing great things and it was a great fight.”And that’s why we get to do it again on December 21.” More

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      Boxing fans celebrate as viral ring girl Sydney Thomas reveals she is newly single after Jake Paul vs Mike Tyson fight

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      RING girl Sydney Thomas has revealed that she broke up with her boyfriend shortly before her rise to fame.Sydney, who recently turned 21, became a viral hit while working on the Jake Paul-Mike Tyson fight last month.Sydney Thomas rose to fame at the Jake Paul-Mike Tyson fightCredit: Instagram / @iamsydneythomasSydney worked as a ring girl at the fightCredit: Instagram / @iamsydneythomasShe now has 775,000 Instagram followersCredit: INSTAGRAM @iamsydneythomasShe now has 775,000 Instagram followers, a figure that skyrocketed during her ring girl appearance on the Netflix card.Speaking to Nick Nayersina, Sydney lifted the lid on her relationship status.The viral star revealed: “I literally broke up with my boyfriend. I had no problems with him at all. Like, he was great.Sydney was then quizzed over why she had decided to end things.READ MORE BOXING NEWSShe explained: “This was right before summer. I ended the relationship because I felt the need to spend more time alone and discover who I truly am.”I wanted to be alone and focus on myself, even if it was one of the hardest choices I’ve made.”Despite the split not being easy, Sydney has no regrets.She said: “As hard as it was to lose each other, I feel like it’s all God’s plan. It works out in the end. Look where we are now.Most read in BoxingBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSResponding to the clip on social media, one fan joked: “Can’t even describe the pain I feel for that dude.”While a second posted: “One unlucky man.”Stunning Jake Paul vs Mike Tyson ring girls oil up as they share behind-the-scenes video of Netflix fight Sydney grew up in St. Louis, Missouri, but now attends the University of Alabama, where she is studying management and entrepreneurship.Sydney has also worked as a catwalk model and is part of the St. Louis Cardinals’ hype squad on game days.Sydney recently celebrated her 21st birthdayCredit: instagramThe model has gathered a huge social media followingCredit: Instagram/iamsydneythomasThe social media star has stunned on the catwalkCredit: INSTAGRAMShe now has fans all around the worldCredit: INSTAGRAM @iamsydneythomasSydney is a sports fanaticCredit: X/itssydneythomas More

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      Israel Vazquez dead at 46: Three-time world champion boxer dies after cancer battle as tributes pour in

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      FORMER boxing champion Israel Vazquez has tragically passed away aged 46. The former three-time super-bantamweight champion was recently diagnosed with stage four sarcoma. Israel Vazquez has tragically passed away aged 46Credit: GETTYThe former three-time super-bantamweight champion was recently diagnosed with stage four cancerCredit: GETTYThe beloved Mexican mauler has sadly lost his battle with the diseaseCredit: GETTYBut ‘El Magnifico’ has tragically lost his brief battle with the disease. His passing was announced by WBC president Mauricio Sulaiman. He wrote on X “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.”READ MORE BOXING NEWSVazquez’s illness left him incredibly weak and barely able to speak. His wife Laura told the Los Angeles Times: “He can hardly speak and, when he does, he is short of breath. He is very weak.” Vazquez and his family were given a grim diagnosis after the severity of his cancer was revealed but Laura refused to give up hope. She said: “We were told he would have six months to live, but I’m not going to give up. Most read in BoxingTributes for the late Vazquez have poured in from around the worldCredit: GETTY”We’re going to get a second opinion. We know there’s still hope.”Tributes for the late Vazquez began to pour in after news of his passing spread on social media.Eddie Hearn reacts wildy in the ring as Katie Taylor beats Amanda SerranoFormer world champ Billy Dib wrote: “Heartbroken to hear about the passing of Israel Vázquez after his courageous battle with cancer.”He was not only a champion but also a true warrior in and out of the ring. “My heartfelt condolences go out to his family, friends, and all who admired him. May he rest in peace.”One boxing fan wrote: “Rest in peace Israel ‘Magnifico’ Vazquez a true Mexican fighter who fought with pure heart every fight.”Condolences to Israel family.”Another said: “The Mexican idol encapsulated the famous Mexican fighting spirit.”And another said: “That’s such terrible news about Israel Vazquez. “A true warrior in and out of the ring. Israel Vazquez has four fights with fellow Mexican Rafael MarquezCredit: ALAMY”He had one of the best rivalries in boxing history and the 3rd fight with Marquez is one of the best fights of this century. “And a top 10 super bantamweight ever. Rest in peace, champ.”Marquez reached the pinnacle of the sport in the 39th professional fight in March 2004, in which he stopped Jose Luis Valbuena in the 12th round to claim the vacant IBF super-bantamweight crown.He would go on to win the WBC and Ring Magazine 122lbs straps a year later with a stunning third-round stoppage of Oscar Larios. He’d defend the belts twice before losing them in the first of his four bouts with Rafael Marquez in March 2007. He’d exact his revenge four months later with a sixth-round TKO victory and defend them the following March courtesy of a hard-fought split decision. READ MORE SUN STORIESMarquez, however, would level their series two years later with a third-round knockout in May 2010. The defeat to Marquez would prove to be the final bout of a legendary career for the Mexico City mauler. More