Tragedy in Japanese Boxing: Two 28-Year-Old Boxers Die from Brain Injuries
Two Japanese boxers, Shigetoshi Kotari and Hiromasa Urakawa, both 28, tragically died from brain injuries sustained in their fights that were on the same exact card, prompting safety changes in the sport.
The incident has shocked the Japanese boxing community and raised serious concerns about the safety protocols within the sport. Both boxers, who were competing in the Oriental and Pacific Boxing Federation (OPBF) junior lightweight division, suffered fatal injuries during separate bouts that took place on the same card.
Kotari collapsed shortly after completing a 12-round draw against the OPBF junior lightweight champion Yamato Hata on August 2. He was taken to the hospital for emergency surgery for a subdural hematoma, a condition where blood collects between the brain and the skull. Despite the immediate medical intervention, Kotari succumbed to his injuries on Friday.
Urakawa, another 28-year-old fighter, suffered a knockout loss to Yoji Saito and had to undergo a craniotomy, a surgical procedure to remove blood clots, in an effort to save his life. However, his condition deteriorated, and he also passed away.
The Japanese Boxing Commission has responded swiftly to the tragedy by announcing that all OPBF title bouts will now be reduced from 12 rounds to 10. This decision reflects the organization’s commitment to enhancing safety measures and preventing future incidents.
These tragedies are not isolated to Japan. Earlier this year, Irish boxer John Cooney died a week after being taken into intensive care following his Celtic super-featherweight title defeat to Nathan Howells in Belfast. Similarly, a Nigerian boxer collapsed and died during a fight in April, underscoring the unpredictable nature of the sport.
The World Boxing Organization (WBO) expressed its condolences to the families, friends, and the Japanese boxing community during this incredibly difficult time. Their statement emphasized the importance of prioritizing fighter safety and the need for continuous improvements in the sport’s medical protocols.
As the boxing world mourns the loss of these young athletes, the call for stricter safety regulations and better medical oversight in combat sports continues to grow louder. These incidents serve as a stark reminder of the inherent risks in the sport and the urgent need for reform to protect future boxers.