Japan’s boxing community is in mourning after two fighters, competing on the same card in Tokyo, died from severe brain injuries sustained in separate bouts, an incident officials believe is unprecedented in the country’s sporting history. Super featherweight Shigetoshi Kotari and lightweight Hiromasa Urakawa, both 28, were injured during matches at Korakuen Hall on August 2.
Both men were rushed to hospital and underwent emergency skull-opening surgery for acute brain trauma.
Kotari collapsed shortly after completing a grueling 12-round draw against fellow Japanese fighter Yamato Hata.
His gym, M.T Boxing, announced that he died at 10:59 p.m. on August 8, saying he “fought his way through surgery and treatment” before succumbing to an acute subdural hematoma.
Urakawa’s injuries came during his eighth-round TKO loss to Yoji Saito. The World Boxing Organization confirmed his death in a statement on Sunday, noting that it came just days after Kotari’s passing.
“This heartbreaking news comes just days after the loss of Shigetoshi Kotari. Our deepest condolences go to their families, friends, and the Japanese boxing community,” the WBO wrote.
Japan Boxing Commission Secretary-General Tsuyoshi Yasukochi told local media that it was “likely the first time in Japan” two fighters required such extensive surgery for injuries sustained at the same event.
