Terrel Williams is a name that echoes in both boxing circles and online discussions, but not always for the right reasons. Once a promising professional boxer, Williams became a central figure in one of the most talked-about moments in the sport’s recent history. His 2015 bout with Prichard Colón left a lasting impact—not just on Colón, who suffered life-altering injuries, but also on Williams himself. In this article, we’ll explore who Terrel Williams is, what happened during and after that fateful fight, and where he stands today, years after stepping away from the ring.

Williams’ career, though not filled with championship titles, has drawn a lot of attention due to the events surrounding his match against Colón. Despite being a former professional athlete, Williams has since kept a low profile, avoiding public appearances and social media. Yet, the questions surrounding his actions—and the lack of legal consequences—continue to fuel debates online and in sports communities. Whether you're a boxing fan, someone curious about the ethics of the sport, or just hearing the name Terrel Williams for the first time, this piece will offer a comprehensive look at the man, the controversy, and the legacy left behind.

From his early days in boxing to the aftermath of the 2015 incident, we’ll dive into the facts, the fallout, and the current status of Terrel Williams’ life. So, if you're wondering what happened to him or why the boxing world still talks about him years later, you're in the right place. Let’s walk through the story together, step by step.

• David Draiman

Table of Contents

1. Biography of Terrel Williams
2. Early Career and Rise in Boxing
3. The 2015 Fight with Prichard Colón
4. Aftermath and Public Reaction
5. Where Is Terrel Williams Now?
6. Frequently Asked Questions

Biography of Terrel Williams

Early Career and Rise in Boxing

Terrel Williams started boxing at a young age and quickly showed potential in the sport. Born in Inglewood, California, he grew up in relative obscurity, with little known about his early life or family background. However, his dedication to the ring set him apart from others in the amateur scene. Williams climbed the ranks as a professional boxer, mainly competing in the welterweight division. His fighting style was aggressive, and he gained a reputation for being a tough opponent.

By the early 2010s, Williams had built a modest record and was considered a rising talent. He was signed with prominent boxing promotions and had opportunities to showcase his skills on televised events. His career trajectory seemed promising, and many believed he was on the path to becoming a title contender. But things changed dramatically in 2015, when a routine bout would turn into a career-defining—and career-ending—moment.

The 2015 Fight with Prichard Colón

On October 17, 2015, Terrel Williams faced Puerto Rican boxer Prichard Colón in Fairfax, Virginia. The fight, which was not originally scheduled to be part of the show, ended in a way no one could have predicted. During the bout, Williams was penalized for illegal punches to the back of Colón’s head—known as rabbit punches. These types of blows are strictly prohibited in boxing due to the high risk of serious injury.

• Arnel Pineda

After just six rounds, the fight was stopped due to Colón’s deteriorating condition. He was rushed to the hospital and later diagnosed with a severe brain bleed, which ultimately left him in a vegetative state. The incident shocked the boxing world and raised serious questions about fighter safety, officiating, and accountability. Though Williams was docked a point for the illegal punches, he was never charged criminally for the incident, a fact that continues to spark debate and outrage.

Aftermath and Public Reaction

In the years following the fight, Terrel Williams faced intense scrutiny and criticism. Fans, fellow boxers, and members of the public expressed anger over the lack of legal consequences for his actions. Many questioned how someone could cause life-altering harm to another athlete and walk away without facing serious repercussions.

Some speculated that Williams may have privately apologized to Colón’s family, but he has never issued a public apology. His silence on the matter led many to accuse him of showing little remorse. Online petitions were even started, calling for legal action against Williams and for the doctors involved in Colón’s care to be held accountable.

As the controversy continued to unfold, Williams found himself increasingly under fire. His boxing career, already on shaky ground, suffered further setbacks. Despite attempts to return to the ring, the negative attention and lack of support made it difficult for him to continue. By 2019, he had officially retired from professional boxing, stepping away from the sport that had once been his livelihood.

Where Is Terrel Williams Now?

Today, Terrel Williams maintains a very low profile. He has largely disappeared from the public eye and avoids social media. There have been no major updates about his personal life or career since his retirement. Some reports suggest that he has moved on to a completely different path, while others believe he is simply trying to live a quiet life away from the spotlight.

Interestingly, there is another Terrell Williams who is a football coach. This has led to some confusion online, especially since the coach has also been in the news for health-related reasons. However, it’s important to note that this is a different individual with a similar name. The boxer, Terrel Williams, has not been involved in any public roles since stepping away from boxing.

Frequently Asked Questions

Did Terrel Williams ever apologize to Prichard Colón?

Terrel Williams has never issued a public apology to Prichard Colón or his family. While some believe he may have reached out privately, no formal or public statement has been made.

Why wasn’t Terrel Williams charged for the incident?

Despite the severity of Prichard Colón’s injuries, no criminal charges were filed against Terrel Williams. The lack of legal action has been a major point of contention among fans and critics. Many believe the legal system failed to hold Williams accountable for the role he played in Colón’s condition.

What happened to Prichard Colón after the fight?

Prichard Colón suffered a severe brain bleed during the fight and was left in a vegetative state. His condition remains unchanged years later, and he continues to require full-time medical care. The incident sparked widespread discussions about safety in combat sports and the long-term consequences of illegal tactics in the ring.

For more on the world of boxing and its most controversial moments, learn more about other notable fights that shaped the sport’s history.