Prichard Colon, a former boxer from Puerto Rico, has passed away at the age of 33, over ten years after sustaining a severe brain injury that curtailed what was anticipated to be a bright future in boxing. His father and ex-coach, Richard Colon, announced his death on Thursday, August 13, stating that his son is now "in a better place."
Colon's life took a shocking turn on October 17, 2015, during his match against Terrel Williams in Fairfax, Virginia. The once unbeaten prospect suffered multiple blows to the back of the head, referred to as rabbit punches, before ultimately collapsing. Medical professionals identified a brain bleed, leading to Colon undergoing emergency surgery and subsequently spending 221 days in a coma.
Colon's life was irrevocably altered on October 17, 2015, during his match against Terrel Williams in Fairfax, Virginia. The once unbeaten prospect suffered multiple blows to the back of the head, referred to as rabbit punches, before ultimately collapsing. Medical professionals identified a brain bleed, leading to Colon undergoing emergency surgery and subsequently spending 221 days in a coma.
Deep Dive
What was the impact of Prichard Colon's injury on boxing safety regulations?
What were the grounds for the negligence lawsuit filed by Prichard Colon's parents?
Why did Prichard Colon's health deteriorate after the 2015 fight against Terrel Williams?
Prichard Colon's bout that transformed boxing safety
Colon did not return to the boxing ring, yet his narrative transcended his impressive 16-1 professional record and 13 knockout wins. His family dedicated the subsequent years to documenting his rehabilitation journey as he endeavored to regain movement and communication, turning his recovery into an extraordinary battle beyond the ring.
{{/usCountry}}Colon did not return to the boxing ring, yet his narrative transcended his impressive 16-1 professional record and 13 knockout wins. His family dedicated the subsequent years to documenting his rehabilitation journey as he endeavored to regain movement and communication, turning his recovery into an extraordinary battle beyond the ring.
{{/usCountry}}Also Read: Was Prichard Colon married? A look at his dad Richard and mom Nieves amid sudden death at 33
His injuries also had a profound impact on boxing safety. The WBC officially supported what became known as the "Prichard Colon Rule," advocating for a zero-tolerance policy regarding punches to the back of the head.
According to this policy, referees are encouraged to take immediate action against illegal punches through warnings, point deductions, and, when necessary, disqualification. The WBC has cautioned that strikes to this sensitive area can lead to paralysis and severe brain damage.
Prichard Colon family sought $50 million after devastating fight
In May 2017, a negligence lawsuit was filed by Colon's parents, Nieves and Richard, naming ringside physician Dr. Richard Ashby, his medical practice, Headbanger's Promotions, and DiBella Entertainment. The family contended that Ashby ought to have halted the fight after Colon reported experiencing dizziness and pain in the back of his head due to multiple blows, and that the promoters neglected to provide sufficient medical protections. Court documents verify that these claims were central to the complaint.
The suit demanded a minimum of $50 million, partly due to the fact that Colon would need significant long-term medical treatment.
There has been no publicly disclosed judgment or settlement amounting to $50 million for the Colon family. Following his death at the age of 33 indicate, the lawsuit still remains unresolved, with no publicly announced trial verdict or settlement nearly nine years after its initiation.
Prichard Colon's net worth: Here's what we know
There is currently no officially verified figure regarding Prichard Colón's net worth. His professional career concluded just as he was starting to make a name for himself, resulting in insufficient public records that outline his total earnings, properties, investments, or other assets. However, certain estimates from some websites suggest that his net worth is around $100,000.