Prichard Colon dies at 33, nearly 11 years after brain injury ended his boxing career

Former Puerto Rican boxer, Prichard Colon has died at the age of 33, almost 11 years after suffering severe brain injury that ended his career.

His death was announced by his father on Thursday in a Facebook post  though the family did not disclose the specific cause of his death.

“Good morning my people. I regret to inform you the passing of my son Prichard from this earthly world, now he is in a better world,” He wrote.

Colons mother Nieves Melendez also condoled her son in a Facebook post that her son now rests in Gods hand and thanked friends for their support, respect and love they showed to the family.

Born in 1992 in Maitland Florida the represented Puerto Rico in amateur boxing and won gold at the Pan American Youth Championship in 2010.  Among his notable wins was a fourth-round knockout of former world champion Vivian Harris in September 2015, victory that pushed his at the apex of his career.

 In the same year, the boxer was viewed as a rising champion at the age of 23 when he came against American fighter Terrel Williams in Fairfax undefeated at 16-0 with 13 of his victories coming by knockout. 

During the bout, Colón told ringside doctor between the rounds that he was feeling dizzy. He was later disqualified after removing his gloves, apparently believing the fight was over. He then vomited and collapsed in his dressing room and was taken to the hospital, where doctors found he had suffered a brain bleed.

After surgery, he went into a coma for 221 days. When he emerged from coma, he remained severely disabled for the rest of his life, unable to speak, receiving physical therapy and using a computer to communicate.

Despite his state, he was still in the boxing world and in 2021he received a honorary world champion by the World Boxing Council, recognizing his courage and determination. 

Hid death has prompted flowing tributes from organizations and boxing communities remembering him for his powerful career and also recognizing the resilience the family had in his time of ailing. 

On their X account, World Boxing Organization (WBO) paid their tribute.

“The WBO family mourn the passing of Prichard Colon, whose courage, strength and fighting spirit transcended the ring. His greatest give became a testament to resilience and the unwavering love of his family.”

Colon leaves behind a legacy that will always be remembered. He shall b remembered as a promising amateur in his teenage years, winning national titles in the 141- and 152-pound weight divisions.