Two rising Japanese boxers, both aged 28, have died from brain injuries sustained during matches at Tokyo’s Korakuen Hall this month. Shigetoshi Kotari collapsed after a 12-round draw on August 2, undergoing emergency surgery for a subdural hematoma before passing away Friday. The World Boxing Organization (WBO) called it a "heartbreaking loss," mourning Kotari’s death on social media.
In a devastating twist, Hiromasa Urakawa died Saturday after suffering the same injury during a knockout loss. Both athletes fought on the same event card, sparking urgent safety reforms. The Japanese Boxing Commission announced OPBF title bouts will now be shortened from 12 to 10 rounds to reduce risk.
🥊 The boxing community is rallying around the athletes’ families, with the WBO urging support for "the Japanese boxing community during this incredibly difficult time." These tragedies highlight ongoing debates about safety protocols in combat sports.
