Two Japanese Boxers Die from Brain Injuries Sustained on a Single Fight Card

On August 2, Japanese boxers Hiromasa Urakawa and Shigetoshi Kotari tragically lost their lives following brain injuries sustained during separate matches on the same fight card at Tokyo’s esteemed Korakuen Hall. Shigetoshi Kotari, aged 28, fell unconscious shortly after a grueling 12-round bout against the junior lightweight champion Yamato Hata of the Oriental and Pacific Boxing Federation. He underwent emergency brain surgery to alleviate a subdural hematoma but unfortunately succumbed to his injuries, as confirmed on Friday.In a heartfelt social media statement, the World Boxing Organization expressed its sorrow, saying, "Rest in peace, Shigetoshi Kotari. The boxing world mourns the loss of this courageous fighter who faced his injuries valiantly."Additionally, the WBO extended condolences for Hiromasa Urakawa, who also succumbed to injuries from his fight against Yoji Saito that same night. The boxing community remains united in mourning during this profoundly challenging time.