Two Japanese Boxers, Both 28, Die From Injuries Sustained At The Same Event

Japan’s boxing community is mourning after two fighters died following bouts on the same night at the same venue.

On August 2, Shigetoshi Kotari and Hiromasa Urakawa — both 28 years old — suffered fatal brain injuries while competing in separate matches during an event at Tokyo’s Korakuen Hall.

Kotari collapsed shortly after completing a 12-round draw against Oriental and Pacific Boxing Federation junior lightweight champion Yamato Hata.

He lost consciousness soon after the fight and was rushed to the hospital, where doctors performed emergency surgery in an attempt to save his life.

Despite their efforts to treat his subdural hematoma — a dangerous condition caused by bleeding between the brain and the skull — he passed away on Friday, August 8.

In another tragic turn, Urakawa was knocked out in his fight against Yoji Saito and also required urgent surgery, undergoing a craniotomy in hopes of survival.

The pair sadly passed away after suffering injuries in the same ring Getty stock photo

Sadly, Urakawa died the following day on Saturday, August 9.

In response to the devastating events, the Japanese Boxing Commission has announced that all OPBF title fights will now be reduced from 12 rounds to 10.

The World Boxing Organization (WBO) posted separate tributes for each of the fighters on social media.

"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."

Days later, on August 9, the WBO followed up with another post: "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, a lightweight, had a professional record of 10 wins (7 by knockout) and 4 losses, while featherweight Kotari had fought 12 times, earning 8 wins, 2 losses, and 2 draws with 5 knockouts.

In the days leading up to the event, both men had expressed excitement and determination on Instagram about their upcoming bouts.

Kotari said he was going to be a 'champion' k_shige92/Instagram

A day before stepping into the ring, Kotari wrote: "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."

The boxer said he was focusing on winning hiromasa_7/Instagram

Urakawa also shared his anticipation, writing: "Passed the weigh in! Preparing for tomorrow."

"2025, I'm only going to focus on winning. Thank you for your support this year," he said in another post.