Prichard Colon, a boxer who suffered a severe brain injury in a 2015 fight, has died at the age of 33, his father Richard Colon confirmed on social media. Colon collapsed in his locker room after his fight with Terrell Williams, an event during which he complained of receiving repeated blows to the back of his head.
Following the fight, Colon experienced a brain hemorrhage and underwent surgery to reduce swelling, which led to a 221-day coma. He remained in a vegetative state for the remainder of his life, unable to walk or speak and requiring constant care.
"Good morning, my people. I regret to inform you of the departure of my son Prichard from this earthly world," Richard Colon wrote on Facebook. "Now he is in a better world. I did everything possible to fulfil his wish, his dream of bringing him on vacation to Puerto Rico as he so desired, but it couldn't be done. Thank you for so many years of love and prayers. As much as you can, please keep us in your prayers."
Before his fight with Williams in Fairfax, Virginia, Colon had been undefeated in 16 professional bouts, with 13 wins by knockout. During the light-middleweight contest, Colon appeared to be struck multiple times in the back of the head, leading to Williams being deducted a point for illegal blows.
Colon was subsequently penalized two points for a low blow and was knocked down in the ninth round. Believing the fight had concluded, Colon's corner removed his gloves, resulting in a disqualification. His parents had initiated a lawsuit seeking over $50 million in damages against the ringside doctor and promoters associated with the fight; this lawsuit remains unresolved.