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Ismael Laguna, Panamanian boxing legend, dies at 83
Panamanian boxing legend Ismael Laguna, known as ‘El Tigre de Colón’, passed away on Tuesday, September 8, 2026, at the age of 83. He died in the Santo Tomás Hospital following a long illness.
Laguna was a prominent figure in international boxing, serving as the second world champion in Panama's history. He secured the lightweight world title on April 10, 1965, by defeating Puerto Rican boxer Carlos Ortiz at the Juan Demóstenes Arosemena Stadium. His professional career included 65 victories, 9 losses, and 1 draw, with 37 wins coming by way of knockout.
Born in Colón on June 28, 1943, Laguna was inducted into the Hall of Fame in 2001. He is remembered as a sporting hero who rose from humble beginnings, working as a newspaper vendor and shoe shiner before achieving global athletic success.
Entities
Carlos Ortiz · Colón · Ismael Laguna · Panama · Santo Tomás Hospital
Claims
What the coverage asserts, and how many sources carry each claim.
- [● 3 SOURCES] Laguna defeated Carlos Ortiz on April 10, 1965, to win the lightweight world title. destinopanama.com.pa · diaadia.com.pa · www.panamaamerica.com.pa
- [● 3 SOURCES] Ismael Laguna died on Tuesday, September 8, 2026. destinopanama.com.pa · diaadia.com.pa · www.panamaamerica.com.pa
- [○ 1 SOURCE] Laguna finished his boxing career with a record of 65 wins, 9 losses, and 1 draw. www.panamaamerica.com.pa
- [● 3 SOURCES] Laguna was born in Colón, Panama, on June 28, 1943. destinopanama.com.pa · diaadia.com.pa · www.panamaamerica.com.pa
- [● 3 SOURCES] Laguna was 83 years old. destinopanama.com.pa · diaadia.com.pa · www.panamaamerica.com.pa
- [● 3 SOURCES] Laguna was the second world boxing champion from Panama. destinopanama.com.pa · diaadia.com.pa · www.panamaamerica.com.pa
- [● 3 SOURCES] Laguna was a world lightweight boxing champion. destinopanama.com.pa · diaadia.com.pa · www.panamaamerica.com.pa
- [○ 1 SOURCE] Laguna was inducted into the Hall of Fame in 2001. www.panamaamerica.com.pa