Mexico City – August 13, 2026. — The World Boxing Council mourns the passing of Prichard Colón, who passed away this Thursday, leaving an indelible mark on boxing and, above all, in the hearts of millions who admired his extraordinary courage and indomitable spirit.
Prichard Colón was a young man with enormous dreams inside the ring. Undefeated through his first 16 professional bouts, with 13 wins by knockout, he proudly represented Puerto Rico and appeared destined for a brilliant career at the highest levels of the sport.
But Prichard’s true greatness emerged after the tragic October 2015 night that changed his life forever. Following a devastating brain injury, he spent 221 days in a coma and faced challenges that would have broken even the strongest among us. Prichard, however, never stopped fighting.
His courage, determination and, above all, his desire to live life to the fullest made him an inspiration to people around the world. His smile, his progress, his perseverance and the unconditional love of his family transformed his story into one of the greatest expressions of strength and hope the boxing community has ever known.
In 2021, the World Boxing Council honored Prichard as an Honorary World Champion, presenting him with the coveted green and gold belt he had dreamed of winning since beginning his boxing journey.
“Prichard’s courage and his love for life have touched many hearts and inspired so many others,” said Mauricio Sulaimán, President of the World Boxing Council, at the time.
Today, those words carry an even deeper meaning. Prichard was not only a champion inside the ring; he was a champion of life. His fighting spirit, his joy and his ability to find reasons to keep moving forward, even in the most difficult circumstances, will remain among boxing’s most powerful and noble legacies.
“Prichard taught us that the true measure of a champion is not only found in the victories achieved inside the ring, but in the ability to rise when faced with life’s greatest challenges. His smile, his courage, and his love for life left us with a lesson we will never forget. Today, we say goodbye to a great human being, a champion of life, and someone who will forever be part of the World Boxing Council family,” said Mauricio Sulaimán, President of the WBC.
We would also like to recognize the unwavering support of Al Haymon, TGB Promotions, and their teams, who were always there for Prichard and attentive to any needs he or his family might have.
His mother, Nieves, is a true example of love and devotion, giving herself body and soul to the care of her son, Prichard, throughout these difficult 11 years.
The World Boxing Council extends its deepest condolences to his parents, Nieves Meléndez and Richard Colón, as well as to all his family, friends, loved ones, caregivers, and every person who walked alongside Prichard throughout his extraordinary journey.
His story transcended boxing. His courage transcended sport. And his legacy will live forever.
Rest in peace, Prichard. Champion of Life.
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About the World Boxing Council
Founded in 1963, the World Boxing Council has remained committed to protecting boxers, promoting social responsibility, and using boxing as a vehicle for peace, opportunity, and positive change worldwide.
