Ismael Laguna, one of five Panamanian boxers inducted into the International Boxing Hall of Fame, died Tuesday, TMZ reported. He was 83.
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"Panamanian boxing is in mourning," the sports organization stated in a social media post. The cause of death was not immediately reported, although Laguna had been hospitalized in recent days.
Affectionately known as "The Tiger of Colón," Laguna turned professional in 1960. Two years into his pro career, Laguna won the Panamanian featherweight title.
The Colón native enjoyed similar success when he moved up to the lightweight class. On April 10, 1965, Laguna earned his first world lightweight championship by defeating Carlos Ortiz in a 15-round bout.
He lost the title seven months later in a rematch, but regained the lightweight belt with a ninth-round knockout of Mando Ramos in 1970.
Boxing Community Mourns Ismael Laguna
Tributes for the former standout Panamanian boxer have begun pouring in from former boxers and fans.
"It has deeply pained me to learn of the passing of my champion, the great Ismael Laguna, 'El Tigre de Santa Isabel,' idol and legend of Panamanian and world boxing, a figure who left an indelible mark on my life," former Panamanian boxer Roberto Duran said. "Since I was a kid, champion Laguna has always been my idol and my inspiration. I wanted to be a world champion like him. He made me believe that a Panamanian could reach the very top and earn respect anywhere in the world."
WBC president Mauricio Sulaiman also expressed his condolences.
"I deeply regret the passing of our former champion Ismael Laguna, the WBC's first Panamanian champion crowned in 1965 in the lightweight division. Rest in peace."
Laguna finished his career with a record of 65 wins, nine losses, and one draw. He secured 37 victories via knockout.
"The WBO mourns the passing of Ismael Laguna, a Panamanian boxing legend," the
