Tragedy has struck in a boxing ring in Japan as two men have died after fighting in the same event.
Earlier this month, on August 2, Japanese boxers Shigetoshi Kotari and Hiromasa Urakawa, both 28, sustained fatal brain injuries while appearing on the same card at Korakuen Hall in Tokyo, Japan.
Kotari collapsed after finishing a 12-round draw with Oriental and Pacific Boxing Federation junior lightweight champion Yamato Hata.
He lost consciousness following the bout and was rushed to hospital for emergency surgery.
Medics treated a subdural hematoma, where blood collects between the skull and the brain, but he sadly died days later on Friday (August 8).
The pair sadly passed away after suffering injuries in the same ring (Getty stock photo)
Meanwhile, Urakawa suffered a knockout loss to Yoji Saito and was taken to hospital, where doctors performed a craniotomy in an attempt to save him.
He also died, passing away on Saturday (August 9).
In response, the Japanese Boxing Commission announced that all Oriental and Pacific Boxing Federation (OPBF) title fights will be shortened from 12 rounds to 10.
The World Boxing Organisation (WBO) paid tribute to each fighter on Twitter.
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.”
In a follow-up on August 9, the WBO wrote: “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.”
Urakawa had fought 14 professional bouts, compiling a record of 10-4 with 7 KOs.
Kotari said he was going to be a ‘champion’ (k_shige92/Instagram)
Kotari had fought 12 times, holding a record of 8-2-2 with 5 KOs.
“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.”
“Passed the weigh in! Preparing for tomorrow.”
“2025, I’m only going to focus on winning. Thank you for your support this year.”