TOKYO – Two Japanese boxers died of brain injuries in separate attacks on the same card in the Korakuen Hall in Tokyo.
Shigetoshi Kotari, 28, crashed shortly after completing a 12-round draw against Eastern and Pacific Boxing Federation Junior Lightweight Champion Yamato Hata on 2 August.
He underwent a brain surgery for an emergency for a subdural hematoma – a condition in which blood collects between the brain and the skull – but died on Friday.
“Rest in Peace, Shigetoshi Kotari,” wrote the World Boks Organization on Social Media. “The boxing world mourns the tragic death of the Japanese hunter Shigetoshi Kotari, who collapsed in injuries during his 2nd title fight.
“A warrior in the ring. A hunter in mind. To have disappeared too quickly. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family, team and the entire Japanese boxing community
On Saturday, colleague 28-year-old Hiromasa Urakawa died after the same injury during a knockout loss for Yoji Saito. He had undergone a craniotomy in an attempt to save his life.
“This heartbreaking news comes only a few days after the death of Shigetoshi Kotari, who died of injuries in his fight on the same card,” the WBO said on another social media post on Saturday. “We extend our deepest condolences to the families, friends and the Japanese boxing community during this incredibly difficult time.”
