Tokyo witnessing tragic end for two boxers as both succumb to brain injuries incurred during a night of matches.
Tragedy Strikes Japanese Boxing: Double Fatality at Korakuen Hall
In a shocking turn of events, the boxing world was left reeling following the deaths of two Japanese boxers, Hiromasa Urakawa and Shigetoshi Kotari, on the same fight card at the Korakuen Hall in Tokyo on August 2, 2025 [1][2][3].
The tragic occurrence unfolded during separate bouts. Shigetoshi Kotari, a super featherweight boxer, faced off against his compatriot Yamato Hata, resulting in a 12-round draw for the Oriental and Pacific Boxing Federation (OPBF) junior lightweight title [1]. After the bout, Kotari collapsed unconscious and was later diagnosed with a subdural hematoma (blood collecting between brain and skull). Despite emergency brain surgery, he succumbed to his injuries during the night of Friday [1][3].
Hiromasa Urakawa, a lightweight boxer, was Urakawa's opponent in the bout. Urakawa was stopped in the 8th round, sustaining a traumatic brain injury. He underwent a craniotomy and passed away the day after Kotari [1][2].
The World Boxing Organization (WBO) has confirmed the deaths of both boxers and expressed its deepest condolences for the loss [1][2][3]. In response, the Japanese Boxing Commission announced that all OPBF title fights will be reduced from 12 rounds to 10 rounds as a safety measure [2][3]. An investigation has been launched into the incidents, and a meeting will be held to discuss further safety measures [3][5].
The double fatality has raised concerns about traumatic brain injuries in boxing and renewed calls for improved emergency protocols and protective measures within the sport in Japan [5]. The rarity of such incidents on the same card has prompted medical analysis and scrutiny to understand what could have been done differently [4].
Both Urakawa and Kotari were registered users and subscribers of the World Boxing Organization [1]. Urakawa was 28 years old, while Kotari was 28 years old as well, although his weight class was not specified [1].
This tragic event serves as a stark reminder of the risks inherent in the sport of boxing, and the boxing community continues to mourn the loss of two promising athletes.
[1] The Mainichi [2] The Japan Times [3] Kyodo News [4] The Guardian [5] BBC Sport
Art and sports intertwine in the somber aftermath of the boxing tragedy at Korakuen Hall. In a poignant tribute, artists may create works that symbolize the resilience and dedication of the fallen boxers, Hiromasa Urakawa and Shigetoshi Kotari, or highlight concerns about traumatic brain injuries in sports, serving as a call for improved safety measures and emergency protocols.
