Two Japanese boxers die of head injuries in same event in Tokyo

The World Boxing Organisation (WBO) has said a second Japanese boxer died from brain injuries on the same card at Tokyo’s Korakuen Hall this week.

Shigetoshi Kotari and Hiromasa Urakawa, both 28, died following separate bouts on August 2. Kotari had collapsed after a 12-round draw against Yamato Hata and underwent emergency brain surgery for a subdural hematoma, but could not be saved.

On Saturday, Urakawa died after suffering the same injury during a knockout defeat to Yoji Saito. He underwent craniotomy before succumbing to the injury.

"The boxing world mourns the tragic passing of Japanese fighter Shigetoshi Kotari, who succumbed to injuries sustained during his August 2nd title fight,” posted WBO on social media.

"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.

"This heartbreaking news comes just days after the passing of Shigetoshi Kotari, who died from injuries suffered in his fight on the same card," the WBO said.