Two boxers die after card in Tokyo prompts safety changes

Two boxers Shigetoshi Kotari and Hiromasa Urakawa died from brain injuries after competing on the same card in Tokyo, and the Japanese Boxing Commission responded by shortening Oriental and Pacific Boxing Federation title fights from 12 rounds to 10.

Hiromasa Urakawa becomes second boxer to die after competing at same event in Japan

Two boxers died after brain injuries sustained on the same boxing card at Korakuen Hall in Tokyo. Shigetoshi Kotari, who fought to a draw with Yamato Hata on the night, died days after the event, and Hiromasa Urakawa, 28, died after a bout with Yoji Saito on August 2. The World Boxing Organization confirmed the death of Urakawa and offered condolences.

Following the deaths, the Japanese Boxing Commission announced a policy change: all Oriental and Pacific Boxing Federation title fights will move from 12 rounds to 10. Urakawa fought 14 professional bouts (10-4, 7 KOs) and Kotari fought 12 bouts (8-2-2, 5 KOs).

The deaths expose gaps in medical readiness and safety protocols at boxing events. Regulators face mounting pressure to act beyond words.

Shorter rounds for OPBF fights are a start, but the bigger task is broad reforms across the sport. These reforms could include stricter medical testing, clearer safety thresholds, and independent oversight.

Highlights

Safety reforms for boxing will be tested in the weeks ahead.