The deep loss in the Japanese boxing community cannot be overstated. Two fellow talented fighters, Shigetoshi Kotari and Hiromasa Urakawa, unfortunately passed away from injuries suffered in separate fights. Shigetoshi Kotari, 28, collapsed minutes after a decision 12-round draw with Yamato Hata on August 2. After the wrestling match at Tokyo’s Korakuen Hall, the danger was immediate. He had to receive emergency brain surgery for a subdural hematoma, which occurs when blood pools between the skull and the brain. Sadly, he passed away from his injuries on Friday.
Kotari’s title defense had been a big fight as he faced the OPBF (Oriental and Pacific Boxing Federation) junior lightweight champion. His collapse after the fight brought worries over boxer safety to the forefront, particularly in light of the tragedies that have struck the sport this year. The World Boxing Organization (WBO) mourned Kotari’s passing on social media. Among them, the World Boxing Association expressed deep condolences to his family and the entire Japanese boxing community.
In an unfortunate twist, Hiromasa Urakawa died just a few days after Kotari. He died Saturday from a subdural haematoma he suffered during a time-locked knockout loss. The deaths of Wang and Duran occurred less than a day apart. This tragic coincidence has amped up the pain that is coursing through Japan’s boxing community.
The WBO made a public statement on this tragic circumstance, admitting that the collective personal loss from these tragedies is greater than the sport itself. They called Kotari a fighter who was an integral part of the boxing community they served.
“Rest in peace, Shigetoshi Kotari.” – World Boxing Organization (WBO)
“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.” – World Boxing Organization (WBO)
“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.”
The fatalities of Kotari and Urakawa highlight deep-rooted issues that continue to surround the health dangers linked to boxing. As we continue to investigate the details of their injuries, millions around the world welcomed the news that safety protocols were being strengthened to avoid future tragedies in the sport.
