By Gabriel F. Cordero
The time has finally arrived for the “Roberto Durán – The Legacy” International Olympic-Style Boxing Tournament. The event will take place at the “Atheyna Bylon” Public Gymnasium on the Cinta Costera in Panama City, honoring four-time world champion and national hero “Hands of Stone” Roberto Durán. This major project is supported by the National Government and by Mexican brothers Juan Manuel and Rafael Márquez, both members of the International Boxing Hall of Fame in Canastota.
Panamanian teenage and young adult boxers have trained under the direct supervision, strategic guidance, and encouragement of “Hands of Stone” Durán at the Pandeportes Luis “Matador” Tejada High-Performance Center, also located in Panama City.
Although the event follows the Olympic competition format, it carries significant social and developmental importance, with the aim of helping shape better citizens and athletes.
Mexican Olympic-style boxers will arrive in Panama eager to support the event and deliver strong performances. The team is led by two giants of Mexican and world boxing: the Márquez brothers.
The tournament also enjoys the support of the World Boxing Council (WBC) and seeks to establish itself as a platform for the holistic and athletic development of promising amateur boxers, fostering Latin American brotherhood and honoring the legacy of some of the greatest legends of the ring.
Key dates, venues, and official event information:
Event: “Roberto Durán – The Legacy” International Olympic-Style Boxing Tournament (Panama vs. Mexico)
September 18, 2026: The event kicks off with bouts at the Atheyna Bylon Gym.
September 19, 2026: Grand finale and competition finals at the iconic Roberto Durán Arena in Panama City.
Team Leadership: Roberto Durán (Panama) / Juan Manuel and Rafael Márquez (Mexico)
