WBC Introduces “Aztec Warrior” Belt: A Tribute to Israel Vazquez
The World Boxing Council has introduced the commemorative “Aztec Warrior” belt to celebrate
important bouts between Mexican fighters, honoring the rich history of boxing in this country
This prestigious belt pays tribute to legendary rivalries such as Morales vs. Barrera, Chavez vs.
De la Hoya, Zarate vs. Zamora, Torres vs. Nava, and the iconic Israel Vazquez vs. Rafael Marquez series, among many others.
The inaugural “Aztec Warrior” belt will be awarded to the winner of the February 1st showdown between Isaac “Pitbull” Cruz of Mexico City and Angel “Tashiro” Fierro of Tijuana at the T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas. This clash adds another chapter to the storied rivalry between these two boxing powerhouses, known for producing numerous world champions.
Adding a poignant touch, Cruz and Fierro will compete for this special belt in honor of the late,
great Israel “Magnifico” Vazquez, whose passing in December left an indelible mark on the sport.
The “Aztec Warrior” Belt
Crafted by the renowned Jurado family, the “Aztec Warrior” belt showcases intricate designs
inspired by Aztec ornamental art. Each side of the plate features an image of an eagle warrior, a
symbol of strength and courage.
Unlike traditional WBC championship belts, the “Aztec Warrior” belt features a circular plate,
incorporating the Aztec Calendar and the name of “Magnifico” Israel Vazquez. The meticulou
production process for the plate required 48 hours of dedicated craftsmanship.
The Jurado workshop, with its three generations of skilled metal workers, boasts a legacy of
creating exceptional belts for the WBC, having produced over 100 unique designs.
Israel “Magnifico” Vazquez
Legendary super-bantamweight champion of the World Israel Vazquez departed this world
leaving us with an array of precious indelible memories, crystallizing his fierce determinationm and will to win in the ring, ameliorated by his gentle and compassionate kindness to his fellow
human beings outside of it.
As long as there is Boxing,” Magnifico” will forever be remembered for his epic fights against Rafael Marquez. Destiny and their extraordinary skills deemed they shared two victories each. Two Mexicans determined to be the best.
Israel debuted as pro aged just seventeen. His career spanned from 1995 to 2010. His record was 44-5, 32 KO’s.
700th Anniversary of the Founding of Tenochtitlán
The “Guerrero Azteca” Belt not only celebrates the rich history of Mexican boxing, but also pays
homage to our ancestral roots. This year, as Mexico commemorates the 700th anniversary of the
founding of Tenochtitlán, the heart of the Aztec empire, this belt takes on an even deeper
meaning.
The Head of Government of Mexico City, Clara Brugada, has issued an official declaration designating the year 2025 as the Year of the Commemoration of the 700th Anniversary of the
Founding of Mexico-Tenochtitlán.
This initiative seeks to recognize the rich history and cultural legacy of Mexico City, as well as pay tribute to the indigenous peoples who forged the foundations of the Mexican identity.
Throughout this year, a wide range of cultural, academic and artistic activities will be held, including lecture series, workshops, shows, rituals and ceremonies, with the aim of highlighting the importance of Tenochtitlán in the history of Mexico and strengthening ties with our ancestral roots.
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