The boxing world was in mourning Friday following the death of Puerto Rican fighter Prichard Col贸n at the age of 33, 11 years after he sustained brain damage in the only defeat of his professional career.
Col贸n鈥檚 death was confirmed in statements by the and the late Thursday.
In October 2015, Col贸n in a light-middleweight fight against Terrel Williams in the Washington, D.C., suburb of Fairfax, Virginia.
Col贸n underwent surgery to relieve pressure on his brain and the WBC said he sustained 鈥渋rreversible neurological damage鈥� because of what the governing body described as 鈥渟evere, illegal blows to the back of the head.鈥�
He never fought again and was later pictured in a wheelchair. The WBC named him an honorary world champion.
鈥淭he 鈥楥hampion of the Heart鈥� became a global symbol of resilience, faith, and dignity,鈥� said the WBC, which added that the incident involving Col贸n inspired the governing body to reinforce its safety regulations and implement stricter medical protocols.
The WBC praised his family for its support in 鈥渙ne of the most moving and outstandingly brave battles for life the world has ever witnessed.鈥�
The WBO described Col贸n as 鈥渁 warrior until the very end鈥� and said his 鈥渃ourage, strength and fighting spirit transcended the ring.鈥�
鈥淗is greatest fight became a testament to resilience and the unwavering love of his family,鈥� the WBO added.
Before the fight against Williams, Col贸n collected 16 straight wins, including 13 knockouts.
He lost by disqualification against Williams because his cornermen removed his gloves after the 10th round, believing the contest to be over.
___
AP sports:
Copyright © 2026 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, written or redistributed.
