Tokyo, Japan In a heartbreaking turn of events, two Japanese professional boxers have died from severe brain injuries sustained during separate bouts on the same fight card in Tokyo a scenario boxing officials say is unprecedented in the country’s sporting history.
The tragic incidents occurred on August 2, 2025, at the famed Korakuen Hall, a venue known for hosting some of Japan’s most intense boxing nights.
Two Fights, Two Fatal Outcomes
Super featherweight Shigetoshi Kotari and lightweight Hiromasa Urakawa, both aged 28, fought in separate matches but suffered similar catastrophic injuries.
Kotari’s Fight:
Facing fellow Japanese fighter Yamato Hata in a grueling 12-round contest, Kotari battled to a draw.
Moments after the fight, he lost consciousness and was rushed to a Tokyo hospital.
Doctors diagnosed him with acute subdural haematoma a life-threatening condition caused by bleeding on the brain.
Despite undergoing emergency skull-opening surgery, he died at 10:59 p.m. on August 8, according to a statement from his M.T. Boxing Gym.
“He did his best to fight his way through the surgery and treatment he had been receiving,” the gym wrote, honoring his courage.
Urakawa’s Fight:
In the night’s lightweight contest, Urakawa faced Yoji Saito but was stopped in the eighth and final round.
He too was rushed to hospital for emergency brain surgery.
The World Boxing Organisation (WBO) confirmed his death on August 9, describing the loss as “heartbreaking” and extending condolences to the families and Japan’s boxing community.
Unprecedented Double Tragedy
According to Tsuyoshi Yasukochi, Secretary-General of the Japan Boxing Commission (JBC), this is likely the first time in Japan’s boxing history that two fighters from the same event underwent emergency craniotomy (skull-opening surgery) and later died from their injuries.
The JBC, in cooperation with the WBO, has launched an investigation into the events, reviewing fight footage, referee decisions, and ringside medical responses.
A Dark Reminder for the Sport
This double tragedy has sparked renewed conversations in the boxing world about fighter safety, weight-cutting dangers, and the effectiveness of current medical checks.
While boxing fatalities remain rare, head trauma continues to be the sport’s most serious and fatal risk.
The deaths come at a time when boxing is enjoying renewed attention in Japan, following Manny Pacquiao’s exhibition match against Rukiya Anpo in 2024.
However, these incidents may now push for stronger preventive measures and stricter medical monitoring during events.
Tributes Pour In
Fans, fellow fighters, and sports bodies have flooded social media with tributes, remembering Kotari and Urakawa not just as athletes but as warriors who gave everything in the ring.
“The loss of two young, talented boxers in one night is a tragedy beyond words,” the WBO wrote.
“Our thoughts are with their families, friends, and Japan’s boxing family.”
