Two Japanese boxers died from brain injuries on the same Tokyo card, prompting the JBC to cut OPBF title bout length from 12 to 10 rounds.
Tragedy Strikes at Tokyo Boxing Card
At Tokyo’s Korakuen Hall on August 2, two 28-year-old Japanese boxers — Shigetoshi Kotari and Hiromasa Urakawa — sustained fatal brain injuries in separate bouts on the same event card. Kotari collapsed after a 12-round draw, while Urakawa suffered a knockout injury in another match. Both were hospitalised and later passed away.
Immediate Safety Reforms Following the Loss
In reaction to these back-to-back tragedies, the Japan Boxing Commission (JBC) has announced that all Oriental and Pacific Boxing Federation (OPBF) title bouts will be reduced from 12 rounds to 10 rounds, effective immediately.
Inside the Fatal Bouts
Kotari collapsed shortly after completing his 12-round draw with OPBF junior lightweight champion Yamato Hata and underwent emergency brain surgery for a subdural hematoma. He succumbed to his injuries six days later. Meanwhile, Urakawa was knocked out in the eighth round, suffered a similar brain injury, and died the following day despite medical intervention.
Why the Rule Change Matters
The shift to 10-round title bouts aims to enhance boxer safety by reducing prolonged exposure to head trauma, a known factor in fight-related brain injuries. The JBC’s swift action underscores growing concerns about the physical toll of extended combat rounds.
Impact on the Japanese Boxing Community
These back-to-back deaths have rocked Japan’s boxing world, reinforcing calls for comprehensive safety protocols and preventive measures. Boxing officials, fans, and international observers are closely watching how the new 10-round limit and other reforms will be implemented to protect athletes.
What Comes Next for OPBF Bouts
Moving forward, all OPBF title fights will be contested over 10 rounds. The JBC may also review other critical protocols, such as pre-fight weigh-in processes, to further reduce risks. The boxing community remains vigilant in seeking further reforms following this harrowing double tragedy.
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