Two Japanese Boxers Die After Fight-Card Injuries, Prompting Round Limit Change

Published Time: 08-10-2025, 14:30

Two professional boxers in Japan have died from brain injuries sustained during bouts on the same fight card, prompting swift changes to match regulations. The Japanese Boxing Commission (JBC) announced that all Oriental and Pacific Boxing Federation (OPBF) title fights will now be limited to 10 rounds instead of 12.

The deaths of Shigetoshi Kotari and Hiromasa Urakawa have shocked the boxing community both in Japan and worldwide, renewing concerns over athlete safety in the sport.

Details of the Tragic Fight Night

On August 2, 2025, at a professional boxing event in Japan, two separate matches ended with severe medical emergencies.

Shigetoshi Kotari, 28, collapsed shortly after finishing a 12-round title fight against OPBF junior lightweight champion Yamato Hata. The match ended in a draw, but Kotari required immediate medical attention after showing signs of distress.

Doctors diagnosed him with a subdural hematoma — a life-threatening condition where blood collects between the brain and skull — and performed emergency surgery. Despite medical intervention, Kotari passed away on Friday, August 8.

Hiromasa Urakawa, also 28, fought earlier that same night against Yoji Saito. He was knocked out and suffered severe head trauma. Surgeons performed a craniotomy in an attempt to relieve brain swelling, but Urakawa did not survive.

Boxing Authorities Respond to Losses

In the wake of these back-to-back fatalities, the Japanese Boxing Commission issued a statement confirming that all OPBF-sanctioned title fights will now be reduced from 12 rounds to 10. Officials said the decision aims to minimize the physical toll on athletes while maintaining competitive integrity.

The World Boxing Organization (WBO) also expressed its condolences, posting on social media:

“We extend our deepest condolences to the families, friends, and the Japanese boxing community during this incredibly difficult time.”

Safety in Boxing Under Renewed Scrutiny

These deaths are the latest in a series of boxing-related fatalities that have reignited debates over fighter safety.

Earlier in 2025, Irish boxer John Cooney died one week after being hospitalized following his Celtic super-featherweight title loss to Nathan Howells in Belfast. In April, a Nigerian fighter collapsed in the ring and later died after a bout in his home country.

Medical experts have long warned that repeated blows to the head can cause both immediate and long-term brain damage. While boxing commissions worldwide have implemented stricter medical checks, ringside physicians, and post-fight monitoring, incidents like these highlight the ongoing risks inherent in the sport.

The Fight Between Safety and Tradition

Reducing championship bouts from 12 to 10 rounds is not without precedent. Several boxing organizations have made similar adjustments in the past, citing fighter welfare as the primary concern.

However, some purists argue that fewer rounds may affect the dynamics of high-level competition, potentially altering strategies and fight outcomes. Supporters of the change contend that no championship tradition outweighs the safety of athletes.

The JBC has stated it will continue reviewing its safety protocols, including mandatory rest periods, enhanced medical screenings, and improved training guidelines for both fighters and coaches.

Legacy of Kotari and Urakawa

Both Shigetoshi Kotari and Hiromasa Urakawa were respected athletes with promising careers. Kotari was known for his endurance and technical skill, while Urakawa was celebrated for his aggressive fighting style and determination in the ring.

Tributes have poured in from across the boxing community. Fellow fighters, coaches, and fans have shared messages of sympathy and called for ongoing reforms to protect boxers from life-threatening injuries.

As the Japanese boxing world mourns these two athletes, the hope remains that their passing will lead to meaningful change in the sport’s approach to safety — not just in Japan, but internationally.