Two Japanese boxers lost their lives from brain injuries sustained in separate matches held on the same event at Tokyo’s Korakuen Hall.

Shigetoshi Kotari, 28, collapsed shortly after completing a 12-round draw against Oriental and Pacific Boxing Federation junior lightweight champion Yamato Hata on August 2. He underwent emergency brain surgery for a subdural hematoma—a condition where blood pools between the brain and skull—but passed away on Friday.

The World Boxing Organization (WBO) expressed condolences on social media: “Rest in peace, Shigetoshi Kotari. The boxing world mourns the tragic loss of this warrior and sends thoughts and prayers to his family, team, and the Japanese boxing community.”

The following day, 28-year-old Hiromasa Urakawa died from the same type of brain injury sustained during a knockout loss to Yoji Saito. He had undergone a craniotomy in an attempt to save his life.

In another statement, the WBO said, “This heartbreaking loss comes just days after Kotari’s passing. We extend our deepest sympathies to the families, friends, and the entire Japanese boxing community during this difficult time.”

In response, the Japanese Boxing Commission announced that all OPBF title fights will be shortened from 12 rounds to 10.

Earlier this year, Irish boxer John Cooney died a week after being hospitalized following his Celtic super-featherweight title defeat in Belfast.

Source: Agency