THE world of boxing is in mourning following the tragic death of Ismael Laguna.
Laguna passed away at the age of 83 at a hospital in his home country of Panama.
The cause of his death has not been disclosed.
Nicknamed “The Tiger of Colón”, he was instrumental in the rise of boxing in Panama.
He earned the nickname for his tenacious style of boxing.
Laguna won the lightweight title from Carlos Ortiz in a 15-round fight on April 10, 1965, sparking massive growth for boxing in the country.
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He would lose the rematch months later before regaining the belt in 1970.
Laguna had an incredible record of 65 wins, 37 by knockout, nine losses and one draw.
The Panamanian was inducted into the International Boxing Hall of Fame in 2001.
He is one of just five fighters from Panama to receive the honour.
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His death was announced by countryman Roberto Duran and WBC president Mauricio Sulaiman.
In tribute, Duran wrote: “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.
“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.”
Sulaiman said: “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.”