Former professional boxer Prichard Colon has passed away at age 33, more than a decade after suffering severe brain injuries during a boxing match. The Puerto Rican fighter, who was emerging as a promising talent in the sport, sustained life-threatening neurological damage following his October 2015 bout against American boxer Terrel Williams. Colon remained unconscious for 221 consecutive days after the fight and required extensive around-the-clock medical care for the remainder of his life.
The super-welterweight contest in Fairfax, Virginia ended controversially when Colon’s team removed his gloves in the ninth round after he complained of dizziness. Colon had alleged that Williams delivered multiple illegal strikes to the back of his head, commonly referred to as “rabbit punches” in boxing terminology. The referee issued a penalty point against Williams but awarded the victory on disqualification. Colon collapsed upon returning to his dressing room and was subsequently diagnosed with a subdural haematoma, necessitating emergency brain surgery.
Before the fateful encounter with Williams, Colon maintained an undefeated record with 16 victories, 13 of which came by knockout. His father announced his son’s death on social media, stating that Colon had passed away at his family home in Florida. The incident has continued to raise serious concerns within the boxing community regarding fighter safety and officiating standards.
Originally reported by Aljazeera →
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