The Fight Never Ended: Prichard Colón Dies 11 Years After Illegal Blow
Remembering Prichard Colón: A Boxer’s Story of Courage and Change
Important Note: This article discusses a serious sports injury and a tragic passing. It is written simply so everyone can understand, but it deals with sad topics.
Who Was Prichard Colón?
Prichard Colón was a young boxer from Puerto Rico (born in Florida, USA). He was known for his big smile, fast hands, and huge heart.
Quick Facts:
- Born: 1992 (would have been 33 in 2025)
- Weight Class: Super Welterweight (about 154 lbs / 70 kg)
- Nickname: “Digget” (a family nickname)
- Dream: To become a world champion for Puerto Rico
His Boxing Journey
Amateur Days (Before Turning Pro)
- Won 5 national championships in Puerto Rico
- Earned a Youth Pan American Gold Medal
- All before he turned 20 years old!
Professional Career (2013–2015)
| Stat | Number |
|---|---|
| Total Fights | 17 |
| Wins | 16 |
| Wins by Knockout (KO) | 13 |
| Losses | 1 (the last fight) |
Biggest Win:
In September 2015, he knocked out former world champion Vivian Harris in the 4th round. Everyone thought he was the “next big thing.”
The Fight That Changed Everything
Date: October 17, 2015
Place: EagleBank Arena, Fairfax, Virginia
Opponent: Terrel Williams
What Happened (Step by Step)
- Round 7: Williams hit Colón in the back of the head (an illegal move called a “rabbit punch”). Colón looked dazed.
- Break: The referee checked Colón. Williams got a penalty (points taken away), but the fight continued.
- Round 9: Colón was knocked down twice. He was hurt badly.
- Confusion: Colón’s corner took off his gloves thinking the fight was over (it wasn’t—the 10th round was next).
- Result: Because the gloves came off, Colón was disqualified. It went down as a loss on his record.
CALL OUT: What is a “Rabbit Punch”?
A rabbit punch is a hit to the back of the head or neck. It is banned in boxing because it can damage the brainstem—the part that controls breathing and heartbeat. It is very dangerous.
What Happened After the Fight
- Right after: Colón couldn’t walk or talk right. He was rushed to the hospital.
- Surgery: Doctors operated to relieve pressure on his brain.
- Long-term: He survived, but the injury ended his career. He needed a wheelchair and constant care for the next 11 years.
- Family: His father, Richard Colón, became his full-time caregiver and shared updates on Facebook.
How the Boxing World Reacted
The WBC (World Boxing Council) Honored Him
- Called him an “Eternal Champion”
- Gave him the Honorary World Champion title
- Presented him the Green & Gold Belt (the same one real champs get)
- Said: “Prichard didn’t just fight with skill; he fought with the elegance and pride of carrying Puerto Rico’s flag.”
Real Change Came From His Story
Because of what happened to Prichard, the WBC made new safety rules:
- Zero tolerance for rabbit punches (back-of-head hits).
- Stricter medical checks during and after fights.
- Better training for referees and corner teams to spot brain injuries faster.
CALL OUT: Prichard’s Legacy
His tragedy forced boxing to get safer. Future fighters are better protected because of him.
Summary
- Prichard Colón was a rising star with a 16–1 record and 13 KOs.
- One illegal punch (rabbit punch) in his only loss changed his life forever.
- He lived 11 more years with severe disability, cared for by his loving family.
- The WBC honored him and changed rules to protect other boxers.
- He is remembered as a brave fighter and a symbol of why safety matters.
FAQ
Q: How old was Prichard Colón when he died?
A: He was 33 years old.
Q: What is a rabbit punch and why is it banned?
A: A rabbit punch is a hit to the back of the head or neck. It’s banned because it can cause serious brain damage or death.
Q: Did Prichard Colón ever win a world title?
A: No, his career ended before he got a title shot. But the WBC later named him an Honorary World Champion.
Q: What changes were made in boxing because of his injury?
A: The WBC introduced zero tolerance for rabbit punches, stricter medical protocols, and better referee training.
Q: How can I learn more about boxing safety?
A: Look up the WBC’s medical guidelines or organizations like the Association of Ringside Physicians. They work to make combat sports safer.
Final Thought: Prichard Colón’s story is sad, but it sparked real change. Every time a referee stops a fight for a back-of-head hit, or a doctor checks a fighter more carefully, Prichard’s legacy lives on.
Rest in peace, Champ.