Boxing legend in hospital after contracting coronavirus

Duran has contracted Covid-19 in Panama (Image: Birmingham Mail)

Former world boxing champion Roberto Duran has tested positive for coronavirus after being admitted to hospital center with flu-like symptoms.

The 69-year-old Panamanian former boxer retired in 2001 and is considered one of the best lightweights in history. He fought over five decades, held four different world titles, and his record stands at 103 wins, with 70 knockouts and 16 losses.

Known for his aggressive punching power, Duran, who grew up in Panama City's poor El Chorillo district and won his first title in 1972, is today regarded as a national hero.

"My father's exams have just arrived and confirm that he is positive for COVID-19," his son Robin Duran said on his Instagram account.

"For now he still doesn't show symptoms, beyond a simple cold, he is not in intensive care, nor on a respirator, he is still under observation," he added.

"The doctor tells us his lungs are fine and there are no signs of seriousness. Let's continue to have faith that everything will turn out well."

Duran, who was nicknamed 'Hands of Stone' beat Scotland's Ken Buchanan to win his first world title in 1972 before going on to win belts in three other divisions.

He had a legendary rivalry with Sugar Ray Leonard, beating the American in their first fight before losing their infamous 'No Mas' rematch in which Duran quit on his stool. He would later lose their trilogy bout.

He also lost back-to-back fights against Marvin Hagler and Thomas Hearns but went on to win another middleweight title in 1989 by beating Iran Barkley.