Boxer Prichard Colon dies aged 33 over a decade after brain injury during fight

Puerto Rican boxer Prichard Colon has passed away aged 33 after suffering a brain injury during a 2015 fight.

In 2015, an undefeated Colon with a record of 16-0 (13 KOs) stepped into the ring a fight with Terrell Williams that changed his life.

During the bout, Colon complained that he was repeatedly illegally punched on the back of his head, but the referee allowed the fight to continue and later docked Colon two points for a low blow.

In the ninth round, Colon was floored and once up, his corner removed his gloves, thinking the fight was over, only to discover that it was set to continue.

The incident saw Colon disqualified and he was helped back to his changing room, where he vomited and collapsed before being taken to hospital.

There he was diagnosed with a subdural haematoma and underwent emergency surgery to reduce brain swelling and evacuate the haematoma, leaving him in a coma which lasted 221 days.

When he woke up, he was in a vegetative state - unable to walk or talk - and required 24-hour care for the remainder of his life.

Now, 11 years later, his father took to social media to share news that he had passed away.

"Good morning, my people. I regret to inform you of the departure of my son Prichard from this earthly world," Richard Colon wrote on Facebook.

"Now he is in a better world. I did everything possible to fulfil his wish, his dream of bringing him on vacation to Puerto Rico as he so desired, but it couldn't be done.

"Thank you for so many years of love and prayers. As much as you can, please keep us in your prayers.”

Following the devastating fight, Colon's parents filed a lawsuit seeking more than $50m (£37m) in damages, claiming against the ringside doctor and fight promoters.

As of today, that lawsuit remains unsettled.

Tributes pour in as boxing world mourns 'true warrior' Prichard Colon

Following the tragic news, tributes have poured in from across the boxing world, commending Colon for his resilience following his life-altering injuries.

"A true warrior in every sense of the word, Prichard left us with profound lessons about life, resilience, and our sport," the WBA posted on X.

"Rest in peace, champion."

The WBC, which named Colon honorary WBC world champion in 2021, also paid tribute in a statement from Mauricio Sulaiman, president of the sanctioning body.

"Eleven years of fighting like a true champion, receiving the unconditional love from your mother Nieves, your dad and so many friends who cared for Prichard Colon you will never be forgotten," Sulaiman wrote on X.

Gustavo Olivieri, president of boxing's other major sanctioning body, praised Colon for his story that 'transcended' the sport.

He wrote: "Prichard’s life was defined by courage, perseverance, and an extraordinary fighting spirit.

"His story transcended the ring and deeply touched the boxing community, which stood by him throughout the years with respect, admiration, and hope.

"Today, the WBO solemnly joins his family and all those who had the privilege of knowing, supporting, and loving him in mourning his passing.

"We offer our prayers for Prichard’s eternal rest and ask God to grant his family strength, peace, and comfort during this time of profound sorrow.

"Rest in peace, Prichard Colon. Your memory will forever remain with us."