Tragic Loss in Boxing: Two Japanese Fighters Succumb to Brain Injuries in Tokyo

In a heartbreaking turn of events, two Japanese boxers have died from brain injuries sustained during separate bouts in Tokyo. Hiromasa Urakawa, 28, passed away on Saturday after being knocked out in the eighth round of his fight with Yoji Saito on August 2. This tragedy follows the death of Shigetoshi Kotari on Friday, who succumbed to injuries sustained during his fight on the same card at Tokyo's Korakuen Hall.

Both boxers underwent surgery for subdural haematoma, a condition where blood collects between the skull and the brain. The World Boxing Organisation (WBO) expressed its condolences, stating, "We mourn the passing of Japanese boxer Hiromasa Urakawa, who tragically succumbed to injuries sustained during his fight against Yoji Saito. This heartbreaking news comes just days after the passing of Shigetoshi Kotari."

In response to these tragic events, the Japan Boxing Commission (JBC) announced that all Oriental and Pacific Boxing Federation (OPBF) title bouts will now be reduced to 10 rounds instead of 12. The JBC has also launched an investigation and plans to hold a meeting in September to discuss the deaths.

Hiromasa Urakawa is the third high-profile boxer to die in 2025, following the death of Irishman John Cooney in February after a fight in Belfast. Cooney, aged 28, suffered an intracranial haemorrhage during his fight against Welshman Nathan Howells.

These incidents have sparked a renewed discussion about the safety measures in professional boxing and the need for stricter regulations to protect fighters. The boxing community mourns the loss of these talented athletes and extends its deepest condolences to their families and friends during this difficult time.