Two-time lightweight champion Ismael Laguna dies in Panama at 83

Ismael Laguna, the former two-time world lightweight boxing champion known as the Tiger of Colón, died on September 8 at age 83. The Panamanian fighter was hospitalized for several days prior to his death, though his family did not publicly disclose the specific illness. Laguna finished his professional career with a 65-9-1 record, having never been knocked out or cut in 75 bouts. He famously captured his first world title in 1965 by defeating Carlos Ortiz in Panama City and reclaimed the championship in 1970 against Mando Ramos. His career achievements served as a foundational inspiration for Roberto Durán, who cited Laguna as the fighter who proved to him that a Panamanian could command global respect at the highest level of the sport.

• 11:38 PMYahoo Sports — Hall of Fame Boxer Ismael Laguna Dies at 83, Leaving a Legacy That Inspired Roberto Durán