The Hands of Stone has picked up another victory. Seven days after his hospitalisation in San Fernando Hospital in Panama City, legendary four-weight world champion Roberto Duran emerged triumphant from his most important fight yet.
To the applause of well-wishers and medical workers, the 69-year-old Duran was released from hospital on Thursday after defeating the Coronavirus inside the distance. He had originally been hospitalised due to respiratory issues before returning a positive test for Covid-19.
“I have no words to thank the medical personnel for all of their care, kindness, respect, and love that they demonstrated to me. They really saved my life,” said Duran on his departure from hospital.
The great Panamanian later showed solidarity and lent his support to those currently battling Covid-19 and paid further tribute to the brave medical staff around the world placing their own lives at risk.
“Today, with God’s favour, I returned home after battling the Covid-19 virus. It was a world championship fight, which I was able to win as a team, with the support, affection and dedication of a medical team which not only took care of my person, but all the patients,” said Duran.
“That’s how I, we, fought in the hospital against this virus that knows not legends, world titles, social status, race, religion, etc.
“To all those people who are still in the fight, I command a great deal of strength and prayers to their relatives so that they do not lose their hopes and know that God is in control.
“To all my fans around the world, I thank you for praying for me and for all your messages of encouragement,” he continued. “I will not tire of thanking all the doctors, nurses, who day-by-day give their best, no matter what risk they take.
“I’ll be a former world champion, but you’re the real champions of life.”