Prichard Colon Dies At 33 After Boxing Tragedy

Former boxer Prichard Colon has died aged 33, 11 years after a controversial fight left him in a coma and changed his life forever.

Colon’s father, Richard, announced his death on Thursday, asking people to continue praying for the family.

The Puerto Rican entered his 2015 fight against Terrel Williams with an unbeaten 16-0 record, including 13 knockouts. During the bout, Colon appeared to receive several illegal punches to the back of his head. He complained to the referee, but the contest continued.

Colon also received a two-point deduction for a low blow before Williams floored him in the ninth round. Confusion followed when Colon’s corner removed his gloves, believing the fight had ended. Officials instead disqualified Colon.

He was taken to his changing room, where he vomited and collapsed. Doctors later diagnosed him with a subdural haematoma and performed emergency surgery to reduce brain swelling and remove the blood clot.

Colon then spent 221 days in a coma. After waking, he remained in a vegetative state and needed computer assistance to communicate. His family cared for him until his death.

Before the tragedy, Prichard Colon had built a promising boxing career. He won national amateur titles at 141 and 152 pounds and competed at the Brazil Pre-Olympics while seeking qualification for the 2012 London Games.

He turned professional that year and won his first 16 fights in just over two years. The disqualification against Williams became his only professional defeat.

For many fans, Prichard Colon will be remembered not only for his potential but also for the devastating consequences of that final fight.

How should boxing authorities improve fighter safety after tragedies like Colon’s?