A Heartbreaking Week for Japanese Boxing

The boxing world has been shaken by devastating news from Japan. Two promising young fighters, Shigetoshi Kotari and Hiromasa Urakawa, both just 28 years old, have tragically passed away after sustaining brain injuries in separate bouts on the same fight card on August 2 in Tokyo.

Shigetoshi Kotari, a talented super featherweight with a professional record of 8-2-2, collapsed in his corner moments after completing a grueling 12-round split draw against Yamato Hata. He was rushed to the hospital, where doctors performed emergency surgery for a subdural hematoma — a severe brain bleed. Despite the best efforts of the medical team, Kotari never regained consciousness and passed away on August 8.

Tragically, just one day later, the boxing community was dealt another crushing blow. Hiromasa Urakawa, a determined lightweight who had lost by TKO in the eighth round to Yoji Saito that same night, also suffered a subdural hematoma. He underwent a craniotomy but sadly succumbed to his injuries on August 9.

Their passing has sent shockwaves through the sport, serving as a stark reminder of the risks fighters take every time they step into the ring. In response, the Japan Boxing Commission (JBC) has announced that all Oriental and Pacific Boxing Federation (OPBF) title fights will be reduced from 12 rounds to 10. An emergency meeting is also being convened to investigate the circumstances and explore additional safety measures, including the impact of rapid weight loss and the adequacy of post-fight medical checks.

This is a heartbreaking moment for the Japanese boxing community and the sport worldwide.

Our thoughts are with the families, friends, and teams of Shigetoshi Kotari and Hiromasa Urakawa. Their passion, dedication, and fighting spirit will always be remembered.