The WBC announced the death of one of the greatest boxers ever to emerge from Panama, Ismael Laguna, the “Tigre de Colón,” who passed away at the age of 83. Laguna was a two-time undisputed world lightweight champion. Born in Colón on June 28, 1943, Laguna gifted the world a majestic career spanning from 1960 to 1971. His first reign began in April 1965 and was the first world title fight ever held in Panama City. Laguna defeated the legendary Puerto Rican Carlos Ortiz by fifteen-round majority decision. Laguna defended against Hall of Fame Nicolino Locche in Locche's home country, Argentina. Laguna's first reign ended in 1965 when he lost a rematch to Ortiz in Puerto Rico. He lost a third fight to Ortiz in 1967 but persevered and landed a 1970 title shot against Mando Ramos, which he won by technical knockout. He defended against Guts Ishimatsu but then was stripped by the WBC and lost a split decision to Ken Buchanan for the WBA title only, also in 1970. Laguna defeated a future champion, Chango Carmona in 1971, but retired after losing a rematch to Buchanan. Laguna's final ring record was 65-9-1.