The story of Puerto Rican boxer Prichard Colón serves as a powerful reminder of why it is crucial to adhere to the rules of the sport, not only for safety but also for the integrity of the game. In October 2015, Colón’s fight against Terrel Williams took a tragic turn when Williams repeatedly struck Colón in the back of the head—an illegal move in boxing. Despite Colón’s repeated pleas to the referee, the illegal blows continued without consequence. After nine rounds of punishment, Colón collapsed in the dressing room and was later diagnosed with a severe brain hemorrhage. The aftermath left Colón in a coma for 221 days, and his life and career were forever changed.
Colón’s fight is not just one of physical recovery but a battle for justice. His family, particularly his mother Nieves, has tirelessly worked to hold the responsible parties accountable. Their efforts highlight the responsibility of referees, doctors, and promoters in ensuring that the rules are followed to protect fighters. As of 2023, while Colón’s health remains fragile, he continues to make progress through rehabilitation, and his story serves as a poignant reminder to both athletes and fans about the importance of integrity in sports. Playing by the rules is not just about fair competition—it’s about safeguarding the well-being of every athlete who steps into the ring.
Today, while going over news stories, I read about the tragic passing of Fijian boxer Ubayd Haider after his fight with China’s Zhou Runqi. For us latino’s, Colón always comes to mind when reading unfortunate news like this, along with a sobering reminder of the importance of sportsmanship and adhering to safety protocols in combat sports. Haider, who collapsed following their IBO Asia-Pacific Super Featherweight title fight in Nadi, Fiji, passed away two weeks later after being in a coma and undergoing emergency brain surgery. Despite Zhou following the rules during the bout, which saw him land several strong punches, the outcome raises difficult questions about the balance between fierce competition and the safety of athletes. Zhou expressed his condolences, honoring Haider’s spirit and determination, stating that he fought until the very end.
Haider’s death, alongside the legacy of Prichard Colón, reinforces the fundamental values of respect and responsibility in boxing. Both fighters’ tragic stories highlight the importance of playing by the rules and ensuring the well-being of competitors. As the boxing community reflects on these losses, it becomes clear that while the pursuit of victory is paramount, it must never come at the expense of the health and safety of fellow athletes. The loss of Haider serves as a poignant reminder that true sportsmanship goes beyond the ring, urging all fighters to compete with integrity and caution.
