Prichard Colon, a once-promising Puerto Rican boxer who spent more than a decade unable to talk, walk, or function independently after suffering severe head injuries during a fight, has died at age 33. His father, Richard, confirmed the passing, noting the profound loss of a son who remained a fighter throughout his long recovery.
Colon was 16-0 in 2015 entering his super welterweight bout against American Terrel Williams. During the match, Colon repeatedly complained about Williams landing illegal rabbit punches to the back of his head. Although Williams was penalized a point for the fouls, the damage proved irreversible. Colon went down twice in the ninth round, and his corner eventually removed his gloves, resulting in a disqualification.
Following the conclusion of the fight, Colon collapsed in the changing rooms before being taken to hospital, according to The Sun. Doctors determined he had suffered a bleed to the brain, leaving him in a persistent vegetative state for the next 11 years. During this time, he lived in Florida, where his family remained deeply involved in his daily care and therapy, though he never regained the ability to speak.
Reflecting on his son’s journey, Richard Colon wrote on Facebook, “I did everything possible to fulfill his wish, his dream of bringing him on vacation to Puerto Rico as much as he desired but couldn’t.” The World Boxing Organization also paid tribute on its X account, stating, “A warrior until the very end,” and praising his courage and the unwavering love provided by his family.
The legal aftermath of the incident continues to unfold. Colon’s family has filed a lawsuit against the ringside doctor and the fight promoters, a case that has yet to be resolved, according to Newsweek, which cited Colon’s mother. The boxing community continues to mourn a life defined by resilience and the tragic consequences of in-ring trauma.