Israel 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 America.

The third Vazquez vs. Marquez fight, which took place on March 1, culminated an outstanding trilogy thought by many to be the best in the history of boxing.

Vazquez won the rubber match with a breathtaking display of courage and valor in the unforgettable twelfth round, scoring a knock down of Marquez in the closing seconds of the fight at the Home Depot Center in Carson, California to win by split decision.

Said Vazquez, 43-4 (31), "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."

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."

The awards will be presented at the annual BWAA dinner June 12 in New York .

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Boxing News Tags: Boxing Writers Association, Fight Of The Year, Israel Vazquez, Rafael Marquez