Two Japanese boxers have died days after suffering brain injuries in separate bouts at the same Tokyo event.
Shigetoshi Kotari, 28, died on Friday and Hiromasa Urakawa, also 28, died on Saturday after surgery for subdural haematoma – bleeding inside the skull.
The injuries happened in separate fights at Korakuen Hall in Tokyo.
Urakawa was knocked out by Yoji Saito, while Kotari fought Yamato Hata to a 12-round draw.
Both boxers underwent surgery for subdural haematoma – a condition where blood collects between the skull and the brain.
“We extend our deepest condolences to the families, friends, and the Japanese boxing community during this incredibly difficult time,” the World Boxing Organization said on Saturday about Urakawa.
The World Boxing Council said of Kotari’s death on Friday: “The WBC and its president, Mauricio Sulaiman, deeply mourn this irreparable loss and wish his family and friends strength during this difficult time.”
Another 28-year-old boxer, Irish super-featherweight John Cooney, died of a brain injury earlier this year after being stopped in his first Celtic title defence in February.
People who survive serious subdural haematomas can be left with long-term or permanent problems, such as problems with walking, talking and thinking.
They may also have seizures.
