Prichard Colón took his last breath at just 33 years of age, 11 years after suffering a devastating head injury during a boxing match. His father announced the heartbreaking news through a post on social media.
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“He is now in a better world”
Richard Colón, Prichard’s father, shared a post on social media on Thursday (August 13) in which he wrote: “It is with great sadness that I announce the passing of my son Prichard from this earthly world. He is now in a better world. Thank you for so many years of love and prayers. Please keep us in your prayers as much as you can.”
Who was Prichard Colón?
Prichard Colón — whose only professional defeat came in that fateful fight — was born in Florida. His family later moved to Puerto Rico when he was a child. He rose to prominence as an exceptionally promising young talent, claiming five national amateur championships and winning a gold medal at the Pan American Youth Championship, all before the age of 20. His professional career, which began in 2013, was equally impressive. He competed in a total of 17 bouts, winning 16 of them, 13 of which came by way of knockout.
Boxer Prichard Colón has passed away almost 11 years after suffering a subdural hematoma
It was caused by Terrel Williams, who landed multiple illegal rabbit punches to the back of the head in their October 2015 fight
He was just 33 years old 💔
Writer: Ian…
— Mario Nawfal (@MarioNawfal) August 13, 2026
The fateful night
In October 2015, a then 23-year-old Prichard Colón stepped into the ring against Terrel Williams at EagleBank Arena in Fairfax, Virginia — a night that would change his life forever. He sustained injuries during the bout, including an illegal blow to the back of the head delivered by Williams, according to a statement from promoter Lou DiBella, as reported by Reuters. Colón showed signs of a traumatic brain injury in the locker room after the fight and was rushed to hospital, where he underwent surgery to relieve pressure on his brain, DiBella said.
Footage from the fight showed Williams striking Colón in the back of the head during the seventh round, visibly staggering him. Colón was examined ringside while Williams was penalized for the illegal punch. In the ninth round, Colón was knocked down twice. He was ultimately disqualified after the ninth round, when his corner mistakenly removed his gloves believing it was the final round and that the fight had concluded, according to a Reuters report published after the bout.
Colón survived, but the severity of his injuries forced him to retire from the sport. In photos shared by his father over the years, he was frequently seen using a wheelchair.
The WBC’s farewell — “Eternal champion”
The World Boxing Council (WBC) paid tribute to Colón in an official statement following his passing, calling him an “eternal champion.” “With a heavy heart and immense grief that envelops the entire international boxing community, the World Boxing Council and its President, Mauricio Sulaimán, mourn the passing of former boxer and icon of bravery, Prichard Colón Meléndez,” the organization said, adding that “Prichard did not simply fight with skill. He fought with the elegance and pride of carrying the Puerto Rican flag to the greatest heights.”
Previously, the WBC had named Colón an “Honorary World Champion” and presented him with its iconic green and gold belt, which, the organization said, “he always deserved.” The WBC also stated that Colón’s tragedy inspired it to “decisively strengthen safety regulations, leading to a zero-tolerance policy for punches to the back of the head” and to implement stricter medical protocols.
“Rest in peace, dear Prichard. Your legacy and your smile will live forever in our hearts,” the WBC said.
