Double Grief in Japanese Boxing: Kotari and Urakawa Pass Away After Fights in the Same Event
The boxing world is in mourning following the tragic loss of two Japanese boxers, Shigetoshi Kotari and Hiromasa Urakawa, who died from brain injuries sustained during fights at the same event held on August 2nd at the Korakuen Hall in Japan. Kotari, 28, fought a 12-round bout against Yamato Hata, junior lightweight champion of the Oriental and Pacific Boxing Federation, which ended in a draw. The boxer lost consciousness shortly after the fight and underwent brain surgery to treat a subdural hematoma, an accumulation of blood between the skull and the brain. Unfortunately, his death due to the injury was confirmed on Friday.Urakawa, also 28 years old, passed away on Saturday after suffering brain injuries in his knockout loss to Yoji Saito. He also underwent a craniotomy to treat a subdural hematoma. 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 at the same event. We extend our deepest condolences to the families, friends, and the Japanese boxing community during this incredibly difficult time.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
