Former boxing star Prichard Colón has died at just 33 years old, more than a decade after a catastrophic brain injury abruptly ended his promising career and left him requiring round-the-clock care.
Colón’s father and former trainer, Richard Colón, announced his son’s death in an emotional social media post.
“Good morning, everyone. I regret to inform you of the passing of my son Prichard from this earthly world. He is now in a better place,” he wrote.
“Thank you for so many years of love and prayers. As much as you can, please keep us in your prayers.”
Colón had once been considered one of boxing’s brightest young prospects. The Puerto Rican junior middleweight tore through the competition, building an impressive 16-0 professional record with 13 knockouts.
Many in the sport believed he was destined to become a champion.
But everything changed during a brutal and controversial fight against Terrel Williams on Oct. 17, 2015.
During the bout, Colón was struck multiple times in the back of the head. He was later knocked down twice as the fight continued.
What happened after the match would change his life forever.
Colón reportedly became dizzy and began vomiting before collapsing in the locker room. He was rushed to the hospital, where doctors discovered that he had suffered a subdural hematoma, a dangerous buildup of blood around the brain.
Doctors performed emergency surgery in an attempt to relieve the swelling.
Colón then slipped into a coma that lasted an astonishing 221 days.
When he finally regained consciousness, the once-dominant boxer could no longer walk or speak.
His parents became his primary caregivers, dedicating themselves to their son as he spent the following years undergoing treatment and rehabilitation.
Colón’s story became one of boxing’s most heartbreaking cautionary tales, with fans continuing to follow his condition and send support to his family long after his fighting career ended.
His exact cause of death has not been publicly revealed.