Prichard Colón, boxer who survived 10 years with brain injury, dies at 33

Puerto Rican boxer Prichard Colón, once a promising figure in the sport, died at 33 after a decade battling severe brain damage. His injury, sustained in a 2015 fight, sparked global debate on fighter safety.

Born in Florida and raised in Puerto Rico, Colón was a celebrated amateur, winning gold at the 2010 Pan American Junior Championship. He turned professional in 2013, quickly building a reputation for aggressive power and amassing 16 wins, 13 by knockout, before turning 24.

His career ended abruptly on October 17, 2015, during a fight against Terrel Williams in Fairfax, Virginia. Colón sustained multiple blows to the back of his head, illegal "rabbit punches," which can cause severe neurological damage. Despite protests from Colón and his corner about the illegal blows, the fight continued. He fell twice in the late rounds and was disqualified for failing to start the tenth round, a decision that led to confusion as his team had removed his gloves believing the fight was over.

The true tragedy unfolded post-fight. Colón began feeling unwell in the locker room and soon lost consciousness. He was rushed to the hospital, where doctors diagnosed a subdural hematoma. An emergency surgery to relieve pressure on his brain followed, but the damage was devastating. He remained in a coma for 221 days and awoke with significant neurological deficits, requiring lifelong assistance and extensive rehabilitation. Images of his physical therapy sessions were shared, highlighting his prolonged struggle.

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He never stopped fighting.