Panama mourns boxing legends Ismael Laguna and María ‘Toto’ Murillo

Panama is mourning the loss of two prominent figures in the boxing community, Ismael Laguna and María ‘Toto’ Murillo, who both passed away on the same day.

Ismael Laguna, a former world champion and legendary figure in national boxing, died at the age of 83. He is credited by peers, such as former boxer Carlos Harrys, as a foundational inspiration for subsequent generations of Panamanian champions.

María ‘Toto’ Murillo was a highly respected coach, mentor, and promoter. She played a significant role in the development of numerous talents, having assisted world-class boxers including Roberto ‘Manos de Piedra’ Durán, Hilario Zapata, Carlos ‘El Púas’ Murillo, and Luis ‘El Nica’ Concepción.

The deaths have drawn condolences from across the sporting community, including Metropolitan Archbishop José Domingo Ulloa Mendieta, marking a significant period of mourning for the nation's boxing history.