In a devastating blow to the boxing community, two Japanese boxers, Shigetoshi Kotari and Hiromasa Urakawa, both aged 28, have died from brain injuries sustained during separate bouts at the same event on August 2, 2025, at Tokyo’s Korakuen Hall.
The tragic incidents, which occurred on the same fight card, have sent shockwaves through the sport, marking a rare and somber moment in Japanese boxing history.
Kotari, a super featherweight, fought to a grueling 12-round draw against fellow Japanese boxer Yamato Hata.
Shortly after the bout, he lost consciousness and was rushed to a Tokyo hospital, where he underwent emergency brain surgery for an acute subdural hematoma.
Despite valiant efforts to save him, Kotari passed away at 10:59 p.m. on August 8, according to a statement posted on Saturday by his M.T. Boxing Gym.
“He fought bravely through surgery and treatment, but we are heartbroken to announce his passing,” the gym’s statement read.
In a separate bout on the same card, lightweight Hiromasa Urakawa was stopped in the eighth and final round by Yoji Saito. Urakawa, too, required urgent medical attention and underwent brain surgery following the fight.
Tragically, he succumbed to his injuries on Saturday night, August 9, 2025, as reported by local media and confirmed by the World Boxing Organization (WBO).
“We are devastated by the loss of Hiromasa Urakawa, who tragically succumbed to injuries sustained during his fight,” the WBO stated in an Instagram post on Sunday, August 10, 2025.
The organization also noted the earlier passing of Kotari, extending “deepest condolences to the families, friends, and the Japanese boxing community.”
Tsuyoshi Yasukochi, secretary-general of the Japan Boxing Commission, told local media that this marks a likely unprecedented event in Japan, with two fighters requiring skull-opening surgery for injuries from the same boxing event.
The twin tragedies have sparked renewed discussions about fighter safety and medical protocols in the sport.
As the boxing world mourns, tributes have poured in for Kotari and Urakawa, both remembered as dedicated athletes who gave their all in the ring.
The Japan Boxing Commission and event organizers are expected to review safety measures to prevent future tragedies, while the global boxing community stands in solidarity with the grieving families and fans.
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