The Legacy Continues: Team Durán Prepares for Historic Panama-Mexico Showdown
By Gabriel F. Cordero
PhilBoxing.com
Tue, 28 Jul 2026
In the vibrant city of Chitré, located in the Herrera Province—one of Panama's ten provinces—an extraordinary event unfolded over a three-day weekend: the Roberto Durán National Tournament – The Legacy. Organized by the Panamanian government alongside the legendary Hall of Famer and national sports idol, Roberto "Hands of Stone" Durán, the tournament brought together approximately 55 Panamanian amateur male and female boxers.
Dozens of hopefuls competed for a coveted spot on Team Durán and the opportunity to face Team Márquez, a squad of Mexican boxers selected and trained by former world champions and fellow Hall of Famers Juan Manuel and Rafael Márquez. Together with "Hands of Stone" and the Panamanian government, this initiative aims to revitalize and elevate Panama's rich boxing tradition.
Over the past four months, Roberto "Hands of Stone" Durán, accompanied by members of his family and a dynamic television production crew, has traveled across the country—visiting local gyms, consulting with trainers, and scouting talent for the grand finale. That final tournament will take place this coming September at the Roberto Durán Arena, the country's premier modern facility named in honor of the global sports icon.
Following the tournament, Team Durán will undergo an intensive six-week training camp to prepare for the upcoming matchups.
The "Roberto Durán Legacy" tournament is primarily backed by the Panamanian government and Pandeportes (the Panamanian Sports Institute), with official endorsement from the Panamanian Olympic Boxing Federation.
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