The former unbeaten boxing prospect spent almost 11 years requiring intensive care after suffering a devastating injury during his fight with Terrel Williams
Former Puerto Rican boxing prospect Prichard Colón has died at the age of 33, nearly 11 years after a devastating brain injury sustained during his 2015 bout against Terrel Williams left him with severe neurological disabilities.
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Colón’s father, Richard Colón, confirmed his son’s death on social media on Thursday, August 13, 2026, bringing an end to a painful chapter that began when the promising young fighter collapsed after his ninth-round bout in Fairfax, Virginia.
The cause of Colón’s death has not been publicly disclosed. His passing was reported almost 11 years after the October 17, 2015 fight that permanently changed his life.
Before the injury, Colón was regarded as one of boxing’s brightest young prospects. He entered the Williams fight unbeaten, having recorded 16 victories, including 13 by knockout.
The fight against Williams ended in controversial circumstances. Colón complained during the contest about punches to the back of his head, while Williams was later penalised for a rabbit punch.
Colón was also deducted points for a low blow.
Colón was knocked down twice in the ninth round and appeared increasingly unwell as the bout progressed.
His corner subsequently began removing his gloves, apparently believing the fight had ended, although another round remained. He was eventually disqualified.
After returning to his dressing room, Colón became dizzy and began vomiting before collapsing. He was taken to hospital and underwent emergency surgery to relieve pressure caused by bleeding in his brain.
The injury led to a coma that lasted 221 days. Although Colón eventually emerged from the coma, he was left severely disabled and required round-the-clock care from his family for the remainder of his life.
His parents, Richard and Nieves Colón, devoted years to caring for him, becoming a powerful part of a story that extended far beyond the boxing ring.
The circumstances surrounding the 2015 fight also prompted an official investigation in Virginia.
In 2016, the Virginia Department of Professional and Occupational Regulation concluded that there had been no wrongdoing by the event organisers.
Williams, who won the bout by disqualification, expressed deep concern about Colón’s condition shortly after the fight.
“My heart dropped, my stomach dropped,” Williams said at the time, adding that he was praying for Colón’s recovery.
Colón’s story subsequently became a sombre reminder of the physical risks associated with professional boxing and the potentially devastating consequences of traumatic brain injuries.
His death has now renewed attention on a career that once appeared destined for success but was abruptly halted at the age of 23.
The World Boxing Council later honoured Colón as an honorary champion, recognising his resilience during his long struggle following the injury.
For almost 11 years, his family carried the extraordinary burden of caring for a young man whose life had been transformed by one night in the ring.
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Prichard Colón dies at 33, leaving behind a legacy that extends beyond his record and into the continuing conversation about fighter safety, medical care and the human cost of boxing.
David Okere is a journalist and contributor to Freelanews.com, covering business, governance, public affairs, and human-interest stories with a commitment to accuracy, balance, and public interest reporting.
