2 Japanese boxers die from brain injuries in separate Tokyo fights

ANKARA

Two Japanese boxers have died from brain injuries sustained in separate bouts during the same event in Tokyo, the World Boxing Organization (WBO) and local media reported.

Shigetoshi Kotari, 28, lost consciousness shortly after a 12-round draw against Oriental and Pacific Boxing Federation junior lightweight champion Yamato Hata on Aug. 2. He underwent emergency brain surgery but died later the same day.

Hiromasa Urakawa, also 28, died Saturday from injuries suffered when he was knocked out by Yoji Saito at Korakuen Hall on Aug. 2. He also underwent surgery for a subdural hematoma – bleeding inside the skull – but did not survive.

“We extend our deepest condolences to the families, friends, and the Japanese boxing community during this incredibly difficult time,” the WBO said in a statement on Saturday.

The deaths mark the third fatal boxing incident this year. In February, Irish super featherweight John Cooney, 28, died from a brain injury after being stopped in his first Celtic title defense.