Boxer dies more than a decade after fight leaves him with brain injury

Former boxer Prichard Colón has died at the age of 33, over ten years after a fight left him with severe brain damage. His father, Richard Colón, confirmed his passing on Thursday, though the cause of death was not immediately specified.

Colón's life-altering injury occurred in October 2015 during a match against Terrel Williams in Virginia. The fight saw Williams penalized for an illegal punch to the back of Colón's head, followed by Colón being knocked down twice in the ninth round. He was disqualified after his corner mistakenly removed his gloves, believing the fight was over.

Following the match, Colón experienced dizziness, vomited, and then lost consciousness. He was rushed to the hospital, where surgery to relieve brain pressure led to a seven-month coma. At 23 years old, he was in a persistent vegetative state, requiring round-the-clock care.

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Today, the WBO solemnly joins his family and all those who had the privilege of knowing, supporting, and loving him in mourning his passing.

However, signs of hope emerged. By 2019, after extensive therapy, Colón had made significant progress. He could communicate through facial gestures, sounds, and an eye-tracking computer. He also regained the ability to pedal a stationary bike and was taking steps with assistance, driven by his competitive spirit.

The World Boxing Organization (WBO) president, Gustavo Olivieri, expressed solemn condolences, joining Colón's family and supporters in mourning his loss.

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I do believe in miracles.