Two deaths at same boxing event in Japan

Two boxers suffered brain injuries at an event on August 2nd in Japan. In separate bouts, they succumbed to their injuries.

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… pic.twitter.com/CDzoSmKU2d

— WBO (@WorldBoxingOrg) August 9, 2025

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… pic.twitter.com/PjZtDyBIU2

— WBO (@WorldBoxingOrg) August 8, 2025

Kotari fought out a draw with Yamato Hata.

Hiromasa Urakawa succumbed to his injuries after a fight with Yoji Saito.

The Japanese Boxing Commission, the commission in charge of the card, has since announced all Oriental and Pacific Boxing Federation title fights will be reduced from 12 rounds to 10.

The deaths are a reminder of the dangers of the sport and the need for close regulation to allow for the health and safety of fighters. It is a violent sport and the deaths may not have been able to be prevented even with safety measures in place. But, it is a reminder that the athletes put their lives on the line each time that they are in the ring.

Reducing the number of rounds is an attempt to reduce the potential for severe brain trauma.