A tragic incident unfolded in Japan’s boxing scene as two men lost their lives after participating in the same event.
On August 2, both Shigetosihi Kotari and Hiromasa Urakawa, aged 28, suffered fatal brain injuries during different matches at the same event held at Korakuen Hall in Tokyo.
After completing a 12-round draw against Oriental and Pacific Boxing Federation junior lightweight champion, Yamato Hata, Kotari reportedly collapsed. He lost consciousness post-fight and was rushed for emergency medical treatment.
Despite the medical team’s efforts to manage his subdural hematoma, a condition involving blood accumulation between the skull and brain, Kotari sadly passed away on Friday, August 8.
In a parallel scenario, Urakawa faced a knockout loss to Yoji Saito and was also taken to the hospital for a craniotomy in hopes of saving him. He tragically died on Saturday, August 9.
In response, the Japanese Boxing Commission announced a reduction in the number of rounds for all Oriental and Pacific Boxing Federation (OPBF) title bouts from 12 to 10 rounds.
The World Boxing Organisation (WBO) took to Twitter to honor both fighters.
“Rest in peace, Shigetoshi Kotari. The boxing world mourns the tragic passing of Japanese fighter Shigetoshi Kotari, who succumbed to injuries sustained during his August 2nd title fight.”
“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.”
Days later, on August 9, they added: “The WBO mourns the passing of Japanese boxer Hiromasa Urakawa, who tragically succumbed to injuries sustained during his fight against Yoji Saito on August 2 at Korakuen Hall in Tokyo.”
“This heartbreaking news comes just days after the passing of Shigetoshi Kotari, who died from injuries suffered 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.”
Prior to this devastating news, Urakawa, a lightweight, had a professional record of 10 wins and 4 losses, with 7 knockouts. Featherweight Kotari had 8 wins, 2 losses, and 2 draws, with 5 knockouts.
Leading up to their bouts, both boxers had expressed their enthusiasm for the upcoming event on Instagram.
Just a day before his fight, Kotari posted: “Weigh in clear! Finally the time has come. What I’ve been accumulating. Bet it all and go win. I will definitely be a champion.”
“Tomorrow at the venue, U-NEXT live broadcast. Thanks in advance for your support! Stay tuned. Osu.”
Similarly, Urakawa shared: “Passed the weigh in! Preparing for tomorrow.”
“2025, I’m only going to focus on winning. Thank you for your support this year,” he stated in another post.