Tragic Passing of Boxer Prichard Colon After Long Battle with Injuries

A Heartbreaking Conclusion to a Combat Sports Journey

In a sorrowful turn of events, former professional boxer Prichard Colon has passed away after enduring a prolonged struggle for 11 years due to severe brain injuries sustained during a match in 2015 against Terrel Williams. He was only 33 years old at the time of his death.

Colon's boxing career was abruptly halted when he was subjected to a series of illegal punches to the back of his head during the October 2015 fight, resulting in a catastrophic brain bleed that left him in a persistent vegetative state for the rest of his life.

Throughout his ordeal, Colon faced unimaginable physical and neurological challenges, relying entirely on the dedicated care of his family. Despite his inability to speak or walk independently due to his injuries, his courageous fight resonated with millions who kept him in their thoughts and prayers.

Confirmation of His Passing by Family

After a long battle with the consequences of his injuries, Prichard Colon's father, Richard Colon, confirmed the heartbreaking news of his son's passing.

In a heartfelt message on Facebook, Richard shared the news, expressing his regret that he could not fulfill Prichard's dream of visiting Puerto Rico. He also extended gratitude to the supporters who stood by the family throughout the years.

"Good morning, my people. I am sorry to inform you of the departure of my son Prichard from this earthly world; now he is in a better world," Richard wrote.

"I did everything possible to fulfill his wish of bringing him on vacation to Puerto Rico, but it could not be. Thank you for so many years of love and prayers. Please keep us in your prayers as much as you can," he added.

The Incident That Changed Everything

At just 22 years old, Prichard Colon's life was irrevocably altered when he was struck in the back of the head during his ill-fated fight, igniting widespread outrage and discussions about officiating and fighter safety in boxing.

This tragic event led to the establishment of the Prichard Colon Rule, which enforces a zero-tolerance policy on illegal 'rabbit punches' and grants referees greater authority to penalize or disqualify offenders, significantly changing safety protocols in professional combat sports.

Who Was Prichard Colon?

Before his untimely end in boxing, Prichard Colon was recognized as a promising talent in the sport, affectionately known as 'Diggy.' Born in Florida in 1993, he moved to Puerto Rico at the age of 10.

His father, a retired serviceman, aspired for Prichard and his siblings, Natalie and Ricardo, to represent Puerto Rico in international sports. In 2013, Colon achieved a significant milestone by winning five national titles and a gold medal at the 2010 Pan American Youth Championship, solidifying his reputation as a top boxing prospect.

Colon made his professional debut with a first-round knockout against Xavier Lasalle and quickly gained recognition, winning his first 16 bouts, 13 of which were by knockout. His most notable victory came against former world champion Vivian Harris in September 2015, where he won in the fourth round.

A Call for Reform in Combat Sports

Following his victory over Vivian Harris, Colon faced Terrel Williams on October 17, 2015, at the EagleBank Arena in Virginia, where he endured a series of illegal blows that changed his life forever.

This incident sparked widespread calls for reform in the sport, emphasizing the need for strict enforcement of rules against illegal punches and highlighting the critical importance of athlete safety in the ring.