Former Boxer Prichard Colón Dies at 33 After Severe 2015 Fight Injury

Former professional boxer Prichard Colón has died at the age of 33, nearly 11 years after sustaining severe neurological damage during a fight in October 2015, according to reports from the BBC. Colón passed away at home in Florida with his family, as confirmed on social media by his father, Richard Colón.

Prichard Colón Dies at 33 Following Complications From 2015 Bout

Richard Colón shared the news on Facebook, writing, I regret to inform you of the passing of my son Prichard from this earthly world. Now he is in a better world. He added, Thank you for so many years of love and prayers. As much as you can, please keep us in your prayers.

The 2015 Fateful Fight and Ring Injuries

Prior to the bout against Terrel Williams at the EagleBank Arena in Fairfax, Virginia, Colón was an undefeated super-welterweight rising star with a record of 16 wins, including 13 by knockout. Born in Florida, he spent his childhood in Puerto Rico, where he claimed five national amateur championships and a Youth Pan American gold medal before turning professional in 2013. Among his professional successes was a victory over former WBA champion Vivian Harris by a fourth-round knockout in September 2015.

The October 2015 contest against Williams, however, proved fateful. During the 10-round fight, Colón was repeatedly struck in the back of the head, illegal blows commonly referred to as rabbit punches. Promoter Lou DiBella stated after the event that Colón exhibited symptoms of head trauma in his dressing room following the bout and was rushed to a hospital.

During the match, the referee penalized Williams with a point deduction for illegal blows. Colón was also docked two points for a low blow and was knocked down twice in the ninth round. The fight ended when Colón’s corner team mistakenly removed his gloves, believing the fight was complete and that it was the final round, resulting in a disqualification victory for Williams.

Medical Outcome and Long-Term Impact

Upon arriving at the hospital, Colón underwent emergency surgery to relieve pressure on his brain after being diagnosed with a subdural haematoma and suffering a brain haemorrhage. Following the operation to reduce brain swelling, he was placed in a coma for 221 days.

Prichard Colon dies from boxing injury that resulted in 221-day coma — Photo: Al Jazeera

After awakening, the full extent of his neurological damage became apparent. Colón lived the rest of his life in a vegetative state, unable to walk or talk, and required 24-hour care, frequently appearing in a wheelchair in images shared online by his family. His parents previously filed a lawsuit seeking more than $50 million in damages against the ringside doctor and promoters connected with the fight, which remains unsettled.

Tributes and Boxing Safety Legacy

The World Boxing Council (WBC) and its president, Mauricio Sulaimán, paid tribute to Colón, describing him as an eternal champion and an icon of bravery. The organization previously named Colón an Honorary World Champion and presented him with the Green and Gold belt.

Prichard Colon wears a sparkly red, silver and green vest and headband with feathers — Photo: BBC

In a statement, the WBC noted that Colón’s tragedy inspired the organization to categorically reinforce safety regulations, enforce zero tolerance for blows to the back of the head, and implement stricter medical protocols.

Opposing fighter Terrel Williams expressed deep distress following the bout, stating in an interview with The Los Angeles Times shortly after the event: My heart dropped, my stomach dropped. I’m praying for him multiple times daily to make a full recovery. I cannot enjoy this victory. I’m worried about Prichard.