2 Japanese boxers died of brain injuries after separate fighting in the same event

Two Japanese boxers died of brain injuries suffered in separate fighting in an event in Tokyo earlier this month.

Shigetoshi Kotari, 28, collapsed shortly after completing a 12 round draw against the Junior Lightweight Champion of the Eastern and Pacific Boxing Federation, Yamato Hata, on August 2. He underwent emergency cerebral surgery for subdural hematoma, a condition in which blood accumulates between the brain and skull. He died on Friday.

“Rest in peace, Shigetoshi Kotari,” wrote the World Boxing Organization on social networks. “The boxing world cries the tragic death of Japanese fighter Shigetoshi Kotari, who succumbed to the wounds suffered during his fight for August 2.

“A warrior in the ring. A fighter in spirit. He left too soon. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family, team and the entire Japanese boxing community.”

On Saturday, Hiromasa Urakawa, 28, died after suffering the same injury during a defeat to Yoji Daito. He had undergone a craneotomy in an attempt to save his life.

“This heartbreaking news occurs a few days after the death of Shigetoshi Kotari, who died from the wounds suffered in his fight in the same card,” said the OMB in another publication on social networks on Saturday. “We extend our deepest condolences to families, friends and the Japanese boxing community during this incredibly difficult time.”

After the event at the Tokyo Korakuen hall, the Japanese Boxing Commission announced that all OPBF title fighting will be reduced from 12 rounds to 10.

According to News themezone BBC partner, local media report that the Boxing Commission also launched an investigation and is planning a meeting in September to discuss deaths.

These are the last high -profile boxing deaths in 2025. In February, Irish boxer John Cooney died a week after being taken to intensive care after his defeat of the Celtic title of Super Pen weight against Nathan Howells in Belfast. The 28 -year -old suffered intracranial hemorrhage during the fight.

• Boxing
• Japan