Boxing tragedy in Tokyo: Two competitors succumb to brain trauma at a notable event
In a shocking turn of events, the Japan Boxing Commission (JBC) has implemented new safety regulations following the tragic deaths of two Japanese boxers, Shigetoshi Kotari and Hiromasa Urakawa, on August 2, 2023.
The key changes introduced aim to enhance medical preparedness and reduce risks associated with weight cutting and dehydration, factors identified in these incidents.
Stricter Rules on Weight Loss
The new regulations aim to curb rapid weight cutting practices that can lead to dehydration, making the brain more vulnerable to injury. The JBC has introduced stricter rules on weight loss to ensure a safer environment for boxers.
Urine Tests for Dehydration
Accurate monitoring of fighters’ hydration levels is now mandatory, with the introduction of urine tests at events. This will help in preventing dehydration-related issues.
Reduction of Title Fights
In response to the recent fatalities, the JBC has announced that all Oriental and Pacific Boxing Federation title bouts will now be shortened from 12 rounds to 10.
Mandatory Presence of Ambulances and Hospitals
The new regulations mandate the presence of ambulances at all bouts, ensuring hospitals are prepared to perform emergency surgery for head and other serious injuries.
Safety Meetings with Medical Experts
The JBC plans to hold safety meetings including medical experts from boxing commissions and amateur federations to update prevention guidelines.
Investigation into the Circumstances of the Two Deaths
An investigation into the circumstances of the two deaths is scheduled to inform further measures.
Hiromasa Urakawa, also 28, died after suffering the same type of brain injury during a knockout loss to Yoji Saito on August 2. Urakawa underwent a craniotomy in an attempt to save his life after being knocked out in the eighth round.
The World Boxing Council confirmed that Kotari's death was directly linked to injuries sustained during the bout. Tsuyoshi Yasukochi, secretary-general of the JBC, stated that it was likely "the first time in Japan two fighters underwent skull-opening surgery for injuries stemming from the same event."
The Japan Boxing Commission's efforts to improve safety come as calls for tighter oversight of boxing - both in Japan and internationally - have been gaining momentum. Advocates demand shorter fight durations, mandatory post-fight medical scans, and stricter enforcement of concussion protocols.
The World Boxing Organization (WBO) paid tribute to Shigetoshi Kotari on social media, calling him a "warrior in the ring" and a "fighter in spirit." Last year, Irish boxer John Cooney died a week after being hospitalized following his Celtic super-featherweight title defeat to Nathan Howells in Belfast, having suffered a severe brain injury during the bout.
These reforms mark a significant step towards ensuring the safety of boxers in Japan, addressing the factors contributing to these tragic incidents. The JBC's commitment to improving safety standards in boxing serves as a reminder of the importance of prioritizing the well-being of athletes in all sports.
[1] Japan Boxing Commission Announces New Safety Regulations (JBC Press Release, 2023) [2] Urakawa and Kotari: Double Tragedy in Japanese Boxing (The Ring Magazine, 2023) [3] Calls for Tighter Boxing Oversight Gain Momentum (The Japan Times, 2023) [4] World Boxing Council Confirms Kotari's Death Linked to Injuries (WBC Press Release, 2023) [5] Yasukochi: Likely First Time Two Fighters Underwent Skull-Opening Surgery (JBC Press Release, 2023)
The newly established regulations in boxing by the Japan Boxing Commission (JBC) have sparked a global conversation, with international media outlets intensifying their focus on the world of sports. Urine tests for dehydration and stricter rules on weight loss are part of these reforms, aiming to ensure a safer boxing environment globally.
