In an interview with Inside Fights, Israel Vazquez discusses his 18-month layoff from the ring, his trilogy with Rafael Marquez, when we can expect him back in the ring, and much more. Read on for the full interview with Israel Vazquez.
How is your eye feeling?
Israel Vazquez: My eye is doing better, It’s been a long process but it will be all worth it once I get back in the ring. I would like to thank the fans and the media for being patient with my process.
What is it like to be away from boxing for so long?
Vazquez: You know how some people say, you never know what you had till its gone? That’s how I feel. Being away from the sport that I love so much has been really hard. I missed the combat and I missed the fans. But on October 10th that will all change as I will make my return.
What have you done with your time off?
Vazquez: Spending a lot of time with my family and relaxing. Oh ya, and a lot of doctor visits. But overall, it was good rest. I would of not taking a long break if it was not for my injury. So, it might be a blessing in disguised. My body needed the rest. But now, I crave the urge to fight.
When will we see you in the ring again? Have you been cleared to fight?
Vazquez: Yes, I have already been cleared to fight. I’ve been training on my own, but my trainer, Rudy Perez, will be flying in next week to get me prepared. And I will make my comeback on October 10th at the Nokia Theater.
Where will you fight next? Any fighters you want to face immediately?
Vazquez: I’m going to fight in Los Angeles. The same place where I won my first world title. I wanted to face Marquez but things did not work out. So, I’m looking to take a comeback fight against an opponent that will be named soon.
Where do you feel your trilogy with Rafael Marquez ranks with the likes of Gatti/Ward and Ali/Frazier, etc?
Vazquez: I think its up there, but it only matters what the media and the fans say. I hope they appreciate what Marquez and I gave for them. But to even be compared to those fights, is an honor for me.
What are the chances of a 4th fight with Rafael Marquez?
Vazquez: I think they are very good. People all over have been asking me when will be fighting again. If it’s what the people want then lets do it.
How much longer do you want to fight?
Vazquez: I want to fight for a few more years. I still want to accomplish more before I retire.
Do you plan on moving up in weight?
Vazquez: I will now compete at the featherweight division. I competed at the jr. featherweight division for over ten years. And with the long lay off, I feel it’s best that I move up.
What goals do you want to accomplish in the rest of your career?
Vazquez: I would like to capture a world title at 126lbs and maybe even at 130lbs. Those are my goals. They have been for sometime.
What is more important to you: Winning or Entertaining the fans?
Vazquez: Both (laughing) I always go out to entertain the fans and I think people know when they attend my fights. I fight. But it’s also important to win because it will help my legacy. I want to be remembered by the fans when I’m long gone.
How do you think Juan Manuel Marquez will do in his fight against Floyd Mayweather Jr?
Vazquez: I think it’s a very tough fight for Marquez. I hope he does win and I will be cheering him on. But I have to give Mayweather the edge.
If you could fight one man in the history of boxing, who would you fight?
Vazquez: Good question. If I could fight anyone I would like to go up against Wilfredo Gomez. Not out of disrespect, but because I think he was one of the best at jr featherweight division. It would of been an honor to compete against him.
Thank you for your time and consideration, Israel.
Vazquez: Thank you insidefights.com! I would like to thank the fans for their support and make sure you look out for me on October 10th! I’m back!!
