Prichard Colon, 33, has died 11 years after suffering a severe brain injury during a fight. His father, Richard, confirmed the death on social media, stating Colon collapsed in his changing room after a match with Terrell Williams. Colon endured a brain haemorrhage, required surgery, and spent 221 days in a coma before living in a vegetative state requiring 24-hour care.

The injury occurred during a 2015 light-middleweight contest in Fairfax, Virginia. Williams deducted points for illegal blows, including repeated punches to Colon’s head. Colon was disqualified after his corner removed his gloves, believing the fight ended. His parents sued for over $50m (£37m) against the ringside doctor and promoters, a case that remains unresolved. Colon, born in Florida but raised in Puerto Rico, was undefeated in 16 fights with 13 knockouts before this bout. He also competed in the Brazil pre-Olympics but lost in the 2012 quarter-finals.

Colon’s legacy includes tributes from boxing bodies. The WBA called him a "true warrior," while WBC president Mauricio Sulaiman named him an honorary world champion in 2021. Sulaiman praised Colon’s resilience and the love from his family and supporters.

Richard Colon’s memorial emphasized his son’s impact: "A true warrior in every sense." Colon’s story highlights the risks of combat sports and the enduring grief of his family.