The Japan Boxing Commission is set to hold an urgent crisis meeting following the tragic deaths of two boxers, Hiromasa Urakawa and Shigetoshi Kotari, who both suffered fatal brain injuries during separate bouts at the same event in Tokyo. The commission has vowed to take decisive action to improve safety in the sport.
The devastating incident occurred at Korakuen Hall on August 2, where Urakawa and Kotari each sustained severe injuries requiring brain surgery. Sadly, both fighters passed away within days of one another, casting a somber shadow over Japan’s rapidly growing boxing scene, led by stars like Naoya Inoue.
Speaking at a recent press conference, Tsuyoshi Yasukochi, executive secretary of the Japan Boxing Commission, emphasized the organization’s responsibility to protect athletes. “We are acutely aware of our duty as custodians of the sport, and we will take whatever measures are necessary,” Yasukochi said.
One key focus will be reexamining weight-cutting practices and pre-fight conditioning, which are believed to have played a role in the tragedies. Yasukochi added, “We want to hear insights from those who have worked closely with the fighters over the years to better understand the risks involved.”
In response to growing concerns about fighter safety, the commission has already reduced the length of all Oriental and Pacific Boxing Federation title bouts from 12 rounds to 10. Yasukochi explained, “Today’s Japanese boxers demonstrate incredible offensive power, often engaging in intense exchanges from the first round. We believe 12 rounds might be too dangerous.”
Commission chairman Minoru Hagiwara promised swift action: “We will begin investigations immediately and implement any necessary measures to safeguard our athletes. Our priority is moving forward quickly and responsibly.”
As Japan’s boxing community mourns these losses, attention now turns to strengthening safety protocols and ensuring the wellbeing of fighters in the future.
