Alexis Arguello

Alexis Arguello, was found dead in his home Wednesday morning, reportedly dead from a gunshot wound. Presidential spokeswoman Rosario Murillo confirmed Alexis Arguello had died and stated there was an autopsy pending. The La Prensa newspaper reported that Arguello was found dead with a gunshot wound to his chest.

“We are upset,” said Murillo, who would not give any details on the death. “This is a heartbreaking announcement. He was the champion of the poor, an example of forgiveness and reconciliation.” Arguello,57, was elected of Managua this past year, after retiring from boxing after several comebacks in 1995. Arguello was nicknamed “the explosive thin man” and had a record of 82-8 with 65 knockouts! Alexis was inducted into the International Boxing Hall of Fame in 1992.

Arguello was considered one of the best lightweight boxers of all time. Alexis was extremely popular in his own country and carried the flag for Nicaragua at the 2008 Beijing Olympics. Arguello had returned Sunday from Puerto Rico, where he honored the late baseball Hall of Famer Roberto Clemente. His death prompted Nicaragua President Daniel Ortega to announced he was canceling a trip to Panama for the inauguration of President-elect Ricardo Martinelli.