Former Prospect Prichard Colon Passes Away 10 Years After Ring Injury

Prichard Colon, a former undefeated super welterweight prospect, has died at the age of 33, his family announced Thursday. Colon’s death comes more than a decade after he suffered a traumatic brain injury during a nationally televised bout that left him in a persistent vegetative state.

His father, Richard Colon, shared the news on social media, noting that his son had passed away and was “in a better world.” The boxing community, including the World Boxing Association, expressed condolences regarding the loss.

The injury occurred in October 2015 during a card broadcast on Comcast Corporation-owned NBC. Facing Terrel Williams in Fairfax, Virginia, Colon repeatedly complained to the referee about illegal blows to the back of the head. While a point was eventually deducted in the seventh round, Colon was knocked down by a rear blow in the ninth round. His team subsequently removed his gloves, mistakenly believing the fight was over, resulting in a disqualification.

Colon collapsed in the dressing room shortly after the fight ended. He was rushed to the hospital for emergency surgery to address a subdural hematoma and remained in a coma for 221 days. He never fully recovered, requiring round-the-clock care for the rest of his life.

Following the incident, Colon’s parents filed a lawsuit seeking over $50 million, alleging medical malpractice by the ringside physician. The suit claimed the doctor failed to act when Colon reported dizziness and pain from the illegal shots. Colon’s journey sparked significant conversations regarding fighter safety and medical protocols in combat sports.

Comcast Corporation, the media conglomerate that televised the fight through its NBC segment, saw its stock trade at $25.92 on Thursday. The company operates extensive media and sports broadcasting assets.

What to watch

• Revisions to medical protocols and officiating rules by boxing commissions.
• Any further legal developments or statements from Colon’s family representatives.

Source: original release