Prichard Colón obit

Former Puerto Rican Contender Prichard Colón Passes Away at 33

 

He was not on the list.

Former Puerto Rican super welterweight contender Prichard Colón passed away this morning, according to a social media post by his father, Richard Colón. The following was posted on Facebook:

“Good morning my people. I regret to inform you of the passing of my son Prichard from this earthly world, NOW HE IS in a better world. I did everything possible to fulfill HIS WISH, HIS DREAM of bringing him ON VACATION to Puerto Rico as much as he desired but COULDN’T. Thank you for so many years of love and prayers. As much as you can, please keep us in your prayers.”

Colón, whose promising boxing career was cut short following a catastrophic brain injury during an October 2015 bout, spent over a decade inspiring fans worldwide through his battle in rehabilitation.

A Short But Lasting Legacy

Before the tragic events of October 17, 2015, “Digget” Colón was widely regarded as one of Puerto Rico’s brightest rising stars. Tall, gifted, and charismatic, he compiled a 16-1 record with 13 knockouts after a stellar amateur career highlighted by a gold medal at the 2010 Pan American Youth Championship.

Though his professional ring career spanned just over two years, Colón’s impact on combat sports remains enduring. The severe subdural hematoma he sustained in his final bout against Terrel Williams—a fight marked by illegal blows to the back of his head—directly catalyzed fight safety reform. His tragedy inspired the World Boxing Council’s “Prichard Colón Rule,” which enforces strict zero-tolerance penalties for rabbit punches and has revolutionized ringside medical protocols worldwide.

Survived By

Throughout his years of care and rehabilitation, Colón was sustained by the unyielding devotion of his family. He is survived by:

Nieves Meléndez, his mother, whose round-the-clock care and updates made her a global symbol of maternal devotion.

Richard Colón, his father and former trainer, who guided his rise through the amateur and professional ranks.

Melany Colón, his sister, along with his extended family and millions of supporters worldwide.