By Gabriel F. Cordero
The National Government of Panama, represented by President José Raúl Mulino, presented a public commendation and a medal to iconic Panamanian boxing heroine Nataly Delgado, the reigning World Boxing Association (WBA) super-flyweight champion, during a ceremony at the Presidential Palace. The event was attended by her trainer and husband, Julio Archibold, and Alfredo Mendoza of the WBA’s “Future Champions” program. Mendoza is a potential future leader of the organization, following in the footsteps of his grandfather and father, Gilberto Mendoza Sr. and Gilberto Mendoza Jr., respectively.
The commendation read, in part: “For your outstanding contributions to national and international women’s boxing as the current Super Flyweight (115 lb) World Champion, and for elevating Panama’s reputation through discipline, perseverance, and excellence—thereby becoming a role model and inspiration for Panamanian women and girls. We are filled with pride by your hard work, the legacy you are building, and the impact you have on the country’s youth. You have become a true leader. We thank you for bringing this title home to the country.”
The recognition reflects the Panamanian government’s longstanding support for Delgado’s career. She also serves as a public servant.
The government places great emphasis on the effort and sacrifice Delgado has made as a woman to excel in a demanding sport such as boxing. It remains committed to supporting Panamanian boxing, as it has in recent years in both the Olympic and professional disciplines.
This commitment reaffirms the government’s support for the development of the sport. Panama is among the few countries whose governments provide significant backing to promoters, trainers, and boxers alike.
With this government support, champion Nataly has become a national role model—not only for her family and thousands of children, but also for a nation that believes its hard work and tax contributions can help secure a bright future for its athletes.
A visibly moved Delgado expressed her gratitude for the national government’s recognition and dedicated the honor to her mother.
The country had hoped that a unification bout between Delgado and Mexican fighter Irma “Torbellino” García, the reigning International Boxing Federation (IBF) world champion, would take place on Panamanian soil. However, unofficial reports suggest the fight could instead be held in Andrews, Texas, this coming November.
