Israel “EL MAGNIFICO” Vazquez’s third epic junior featherweight battle with Rafael Marquez has been named the 2008 “FIGHT OF THE YEAR” by the Boxing Writers Association of American.

The third Vazquez/Marquez fight, which took place on March 1st, culminated an outstanding trilogy thought by many to be the best in the history of boxing. Vazquez won the rubber match third bout with a breathtaking display of courage and valor in the unforgettable twelfth round, scoring a knock down of Vazquez in the closing seconds of the fight at the Home Depot Center in Carson, California..

The knockdown of Marquez in the twelfth round proved to be the deciding factor with Vazquez winning the outstanding “back and forth” battle by split decision.

Said Vazquez, "The trilogy between Rafael Marquez and I will forever stay in the hearts of those that followed it and the love and respect that the fans, and now the media has displayed, has been nothing less than wonderful and very much appreciated.”

“I always dreamed that my career would be like this and for it to actually happen means so much to me that I lack the words to express my gratitude. I'll keep it simple. Thank you Boxing Writers Association of America for this remarkable award."

Vazquez, 43-4 (31KO’s) is currently ranked #4 on Ring Magazine’s Pound For Pound List,  #5 by ESPN and #6 by Sports Illustrated.  

Said Vazquez’s manager, Frank Espinoza, “"I want to thank the Boxing Writers Association of America for choosing Vazquez vs. Marquez 3 as their Fight of the Year for 2008. It's truly an honor for Israel  to receive such high praise for his efforts from a group of highly regarded writers who are considered the best in their profession.”

“This is the fight that truly keeps on giving. It gave its fans amazing thrills, it gave boxing a much needed boost and it produced awards and accolades for Israel that he could've never imagined. We at Espinoza Boxing Club are humbled and honored at your recognition."