The boxing world mourns after Prichard Colón dies at 33, nearly eleven years after suffering a devastating brain injury. His father, Richard Colón, confirmed the former Puerto Rican boxer’s death through a Facebook post on Thursday.
Colón suffered the life-changing injury during his October 17, 2015, bout against American boxer Terrel Williams. During that fight, Colón repeatedly complained about illegal punches landing behind his head during several rounds.
The promising fighter entered the contest undefeated, carrying a professional record of sixteen victories and thirteen knockouts. However, Williams knocked Colón down twice during the ninth round before the fight ended through disqualification.
Shortly afterward, Colón became dizzy and nauseous inside his dressing room before medical personnel rushed him to hospital. Doctors discovered bleeding on his brain and performed emergency surgery to relieve pressure inside his skull.
Colón then spent 221 days in a coma, beginning a long period of severe neurological impairment and rehabilitation. His family eventually cared for him at home while supporters around the world followed his difficult recovery journey.
Before the tragedy, Colón ranked among boxing’s promising young prospects and appeared destined for a successful professional career. The injury instead ended his boxing career and left him requiring constant assistance throughout the following years.
Meanwhile, boxing organizations and fans have continued remembering Colón for his courage throughout an extraordinarily difficult journey. His father thanked supporters for their love, prayers, and encouragement during the eleven years following his son’s injury.
The Prichard Colón dies story has renewed attention around boxer safety and the devastating consequences of serious head injuries. Colón’s legacy now extends beyond his boxing record, becoming a powerful reminder of courage, resilience, and sporting safety.
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