Prichard Colón Dies 11 Years After Brain Injury From Boxing Match

Former professional boxer Prichard Colón died at the age of 33, according to a Facebook statement published by his father, Richard Colón, exactly 11 years after he sustained severe brain injuries during a 2015 bout, as reported by outlets including the BBC and The New York Times. Colón lived in a persistent vegetative state requiring round-the-clock care after suffering a brain hemorrhage during a light-middleweight contest against Terrell Williams in Fairfax, Virginia.

The 2015 Fight and Medical Emergency

Before facing Williams on Oct. 17, 2015, Colón held an undefeated 16-0 record with 13 knockouts, according to match records cited by the BBC and The New York Times. During the nine-round contest, Colón repeatedly complained to the referee about illegal punches to the back of his head and told the ringside doctor, Richard Ashby, that he felt dizzy, according to reporting from The New York Times. Williams was docked a point for illegal blows, while Colón was docked two points for a low blow and knocked down in the ninth round. After his corner team mistakenly removed his gloves, believing the bout was finished, Colón was disqualified and later collapsed in his changing room.

Medical intervention followed immediately. According to the BBC and The New York Times, Colón underwent surgery to reduce swelling after sustaining a large subdural hematoma. He was subsequently placed in a coma that lasted 221 days and never regained consciousness, remaining unable to walk or talk for the rest of his life.

Father’s Announcement and Family Impact

Richard Colón confirmed his son’s passing on social media. “Good morning, my people. I regret to inform you of the departure of my son Prichard from this earthly world,” Richard Colón wrote on Facebook, as translated and reported by the BBC. “Now he is in a better world. I did everything possible to fulfil his wish, his dream of bringing him on vacation to Puerto Rico as he so desired, but it couldn’t be done.”

In the aftermath of the injury, Colón’s parents pursued legal action. According to the BBC and The New York Times, the family filed a lawsuit seeking more than $50 million in damages against the ringside doctor, Richard Ashby, and the promoters connected with the fight, alleging negligence in allowing the contest to continue. Both sources confirm that the lawsuit remains unsettled.

Frequently Asked Questions

When did Prichard Colón pass away?

Prichard Colón died at age 33, with his father announcing his passing on social media in August 2026, roughly 11 years after his 2015 injury.

What caused Prichard Colón’s injuries?

According to reports from the BBC and The New York Times, Colón suffered a severe brain hemorrhage and subdural hematoma following multiple blows to the back of his head during a light-middleweight fight against Terrell Williams.

Was there a lawsuit filed over the incident?

Yes. According to the BBC and The New York Times, Colón’s parents filed a lawsuit seeking over $50 million in damages against the ringside doctor and fight promoters, which remains unsettled.

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