Prichard Colon, a promising boxer who sustained a severe brain injury during a 2015 fight, has died at the age of 33. His father, Richard Colon, confirmed the news on Thursday, sharing a statement on Facebook.
Colon fell into a coma after suffering a subdural hematoma during his bout against Terrel Williams on October 17, 2015. He had entered the fight with a 16-0 record, including 13 knockouts.
During the match, Colon was reportedly hit multiple times in the back of the head with illegal punches, though the referee did not penalize Williams for the infractions. Colon was also penalized for a low blow to his opponent. In the ninth round, Colon was knocked down. Believing the fight to be over, his corner removed his gloves, leading to his disqualification.
Following the fight, Colon became ill, experiencing vomiting and collapsing as he was helped to the locker room. He was transported to a hospital, where he underwent emergency surgery to reduce swelling in his brain. This procedure left him in a coma for 221 days. Upon waking, he was in a vegetative state and unable to speak without technological assistance.
Colon required constant care from his family until his death. His father's statement expressed gratitude for years of love and prayers.
"Good morning, my people. I regret to inform you of the passing of my son Prichard from this earthly world. Now he is in a better world," Richard Colon wrote. "I did everything possible to fulfill his wish, his dream of bringing him on vacation on Puerto Rico as much as he desired, but couldn’t. Thank you for so many years of love and prayers. As much as you can, please keep us in your prayers."
Colon's boxing career included an honorary WBC World Championship title and a gold medal at the 2010 Pan American Youth Championship in the 64-kilogram weight class. He was considered one of boxing's rising stars before the career-ending injury.