Tragedy in Japanese Boxing: Two Boxers Die After Fights
The boxing world mourns the loss of two young Japanese prospects, Shigetoshi Kotari and Hiromasa Urakawa, who died from brain injuries sustained during fights at the Korakuen Hall in Tokyo on August 2nd. Kotari, 28, starred in a 12-round bout that ended in a draw against the junior lightweight champion of the Oriental and Pacific Boxing Federation (OPBF), Yamato Hata. After the fight, Kotari lost consciousness and underwent brain surgery to treat a subdural hematoma, an accumulation of blood between the skull and the brain. Unfortunately, his death was announced on Friday due to complications from the injury.Urakawa, also 28 years old, suffered a knockout defeat against Yoji Saito and also suffered brain injuries that resulted in his death on Saturday. Urakawa also underwent a craniotomy to treat a subdural hematoma.“Rest in peace, Shigetoshi Kotari. The boxing world mourns the tragic passing of Japanese boxer Shigetoshi Kotari, who succumbed to injuries sustained during his title fight on August 2nd. A warrior in the ring. A fighter in spirit. Gone too soon. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family, team, and the entire Japanese boxing community”.
World Boxing Organization
“The WBO mourns the passing of Japanese boxer Hiromasa Urakawa, who tragically succumbed to injuries sustained during his fight against Yoji Saito on August 2nd at the Korakuen Hall in Tokyo. This heartbreaking news comes just days after the passing of Shigetoshi Kotari, who died from injuries sustained in his fight on the same card. We extend our deepest condolences to the families, friends, and the Japanese boxing community during this incredibly difficult time.”
World Boxing Organization
