Published: 23:12 BST, 13 August 2026 | Updated: 11:07 BST, 14 August 2026
Former boxer Prichard Colon has died at the age of 33 more than a decade after suffering catastrophic brain injuries.
Back in October 2015 Colon, competing as a super-middleweight at the time, suffered a bleed on the brain after taking repeated blows to the back of the head during a contest with America's Terrel Williams in Virginia.
After vomiting and collapsing in the dressing room after his defeat, the Puerto Rican was rushed to hospital before spending 221 days in a coma. The fight with Williams had seen part of his skull collapse as a result of the repeated rabbit punches, which are deemed illegal in the sport.
After emerging from the coma, Colon, once a promising rising star in the ring, was left in a vegetative state with life-altering injuries. He was under the near-constant care of his family.
Colon conquered multiple national amateur championships and won a Youth Pan American gold medal before turning professional.
Colon's dad and former trainer, Richard, announced the heartbreaking news on social media, writing: 'Good morning, everyone. I regret to inform you of the passing of my son Prichard from this earthly world. He is now in a better place.'
He added: 'Thank you for so many years of love and prayers. As much as you can, please keep us in your prayers.'
Former boxer Prichard Colon has died at the age of 33, his family have announced
The Puerto Rican suffered catastrophic brain injuries during a 2015 fight (pictured)
Until that fateful fight almost 11 years ago, Colon had been one of the sport's most promising prospects.
He had established an unblemished 16-0 record with 13 knockouts with many in boxing viewing him as a future star.
Following the bout against Williams, Colon was rushed to the hospital where doctors discovered a subdural hematoma.
He underwent emergency surgery as medics desperately attempted to relieve the swelling in his brain. After spending 221 days in a coma, Colon awoke unable to walk or talk.
Despite the traumatic injuries, just three years ago, Colon had vowed not to throw in the towel.
