Former professional boxer Prichard Colón died on [date], his family confirmed. He was 33 years old. Colón had lived in a persistent vegetative state since suffering a subdural hematoma during a 2015 boxing match against Terrel Williams, which left him unable to speak and dependent on medical care for nearly a decade.
Colón’s father, Richard Colón, announced the death in a Facebook post translated from Spanish. He wrote: “Good morning, my people. I regret to inform you of the passing of my son Prichard from this earthly world. He is now in a better place.” The post expressed gratitude for years of support and requested continued prayers for the family.
Colón was a rising welterweight prospect at the time of the injury, holding a 16-0 record with 13 knockouts. The bout against Williams on October 17, 2015, took a severe turn when Colón was struck repeatedly with illegal punches to the back of the head. Despite his attempts to alert the referee, the fight continued. Williams was not penalized for the illegal blows, while Colón was docked two points for a low blow against his opponent.
In the ninth round, Colón collapsed after being struck. His team removed his gloves, assuming the fight was over, but the bout was not officially stopped. Colón vomited and lost consciousness while being assisted to the locker room, leading to his immediate hospitalization. Medical staff diagnosed a left-sided subdural hematoma, requiring emergency surgery to relieve brain swelling.
Colón remained in a coma for 221 days before emerging in a vegetative state. He never regained the ability to speak, communicating instead through a computer-assisted system and physical therapy. His mother, Nieves Colón, shared periodic updates on his condition, including a 2018 video showing him responding to verbal commands. The family continued to provide care until his death.
Colón’s legal representatives filed a 2017 lawsuit against the ringside doctor and fight promoters, alleging negligence in his treatment and oversight during the match. His mother stated in interviews that the litigation may never reach resolution. No further details about the circumstances of his death have been released by the family.
Colón’s career had been marked by promise before the injury. Known for his aggressive style and knockout power, he was considered a top prospect in the welterweight division. His prolonged medical struggle drew attention to boxing safety protocols, particularly regarding the enforcement of rules against illegal blows and the management of in-ring injuries.
The family has requested privacy during this time, asking supporters to honor their wishes with continued prayers and respect.