The world of boxing is in shock as it was revealed that a second boxer passed away on the same fight card in Tokyo.
The news emerged on Saturday that Hiromasa Urakawa, a Japanese boxer, lost his life due to a brain injury sustained during a bout with Yoji Saito on August 2. Tragically, Shigetoshi Kotari also succumbed to his injuries from the same event, adding to the somber atmosphere.
Both athletes, aged 28, had notable boxing careers. Urakawa had 10 wins, including seven knockouts, and four losses. Despite undergoing surgery in an attempt to save him, Ring Magazine confirmed his unfortunate death.
Regrettably, Urakawa becomes the third boxer to die this year from injuries sustained in the ring, joining Kotari and John Cooney from Ireland, who passed away in February after suffering an intracranial haemorrhage during a fight.
The World Boxing Organization (WBO) expressed condolences, mourning the loss of Urakawa and acknowledging the devastating circumstances surrounding his final match. The organization extended sympathies to the families, friends, and the Japanese boxing community during this challenging period.
Following Kotari’s tragic fate, the Oriental Pacific Boxing Federation has implemented new regulations. Henceforth, OPBF title fights will consist of 10 rounds instead of the usual 12, aligning with safety concerns raised by recent incidents.
Ring Magazine expressed deep sorrow over Urakawa’s passing, emphasizing the gravity of the brain injury sustained during the fight. The publication conveyed heartfelt condolences to the Urakawa family in their time of grief.
Mark Dunlop, the manager of the late Irish boxer Cooney, emphasized the inherent risks in boxing, stating that awareness of these dangers is widespread within the boxing community.
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