BOXER Prichard Colon has passed away aged 33 following a lengthy health battle as a result of injuries suffered in the ring.
Colon suffered life-changing injuries in the ring after defeat to Terrel Williams in 2015.
The Puerto Rican was left in a persistent vegetative state following repeated blows he took to the back of the head during the bout.
Colon required round the clock health care but never recovered his speech ability while also wheelchair bound.
“The WBC family extends its deepest condolences to his mother, Nieves, his family, and loved ones. Rest in peace, Champion.”
The WBA said: “We mourn the passing of Prichard Colón.
“A true warrior in every sense of the word, Prichard left us with profound lessons about life, resilience, and our sport.
“The entire boxing community mourns this heartbreaking and significant loss. Rest in peace, champion.”
Colon was unbeaten in 16 bouts before his October 2015 fight with American Williams.
He was down twice in the bout and lost via disqualification when his corner removed his gloves after round nine.
Colon had complained to referee Joe Cooper about Williams’ apparent illegal punches to the back of the head.
He later collapsed in the changing rooms before being taken to hospital – where it was revealed the boxer suffered a bleed to the brain.
An emergency hemicraniectomy was performed to reduce brain swelling and get rid of the haematoma.
As a result, Colon spent 221 days in a coma and only left hospital in May 2016.
In 2017, his parents filed a lawsuit seeking damages from the ringside doctor and the promoters for more than $50million.
The co-promoters were dismissed from the litigation after the court ruled they were not responsible for assigning or overseeing medical personnel or in-ring officials.
As of 2026, the lawsuit has not been settled or taken to trial.
