The Japanese boxing world is in mourning after two professional fighters tragically died just days apart from severe brain injuries sustained in separate bouts on the same fight card.
According to Japanese media reports, Shigetoshi Kotari died on Friday and Hiromasa Urakawa passed away on Saturday following their matches at Korakuen Hall in Tokyo on August 2. Both 28-year-old athletes underwent emergency surgery for subdural haematoma, a type of bleeding inside the skull, but ultimately did not survive.
The World Boxing Organisation (WBO) confirmed Urakawa’s death in a statement, offering condolences to his loved ones. Urakawa was knocked out by Yoji Saito during his match.
“We extend our deepest condolences to the families, friends, and the Japanese boxing community during this incredibly difficult time,” the WBO said.
Kotari’s passing was announced by the World Boxing Council (WBC), which stated he suffered his fatal injury during a 12-round fight against Yamato Hata, which ended in a draw.
“The WBC and its President, Mauricio Sulaiman, deeply mourn this irreparable loss and wish his family and friends strength during this difficult time,” the statement read.
The tragedies come just months after another boxing death shocked the sport—28-year-old Irish super-featherweight fighter John Cooney died earlier this year from a brain injury sustained during his first Celtic title defense in February.
The back-to-back losses have reignited concerns over fighter safety in the sport, particularly regarding head injuries and their long-term risks.
