Japanese Boxer Shigetoshi Kotari Dies After Fight-Related Injury

Tokyo, Japan – Shigetoshi Kotari, a 28-year-old Japanese boxer, died Friday from a brain injury sustained during a fight on August 2. Kotari suffered the injury after a split draw against Yamato Hata for the Oriental and Pacific Boxing Federation junior lightweight title.

After the match at Korakuen Hall, Kotari lost consciousness and was rushed to a hospital, where he underwent emergency surgery for a subdural hematoma, a type of brain bleed. Despite medical intervention, he did not survive.

“Rest in peace, Shigetoshi Kotari,” the World Boxing Organization (WBO) expressed on social media. “The boxing world mourns the tragic passing of Japanese fighter Shigetoshi Kotari, who succumbed to injuries sustained during his August 2nd title fight. A warrior in the ring. A fighter in spirit. Gone too soon.”

Kotari had entered the bout with Hata having won his last two fights by unanimous decision, bringing his record to 8 wins, 2 losses, and 2 draws. The match for the OPBF Super Featherweight title lasted 12 rounds.

After the frightening incident, Kotari’s passing caused an outpour of tributes on social media, with fans offering condolences and sharing their grief. “Rest warrior,” one user posted, while another wrote, “RIP Shigetoshi Kotari.”

In light of Kotari’s death, the Japan Boxing Commission plans to implement new regulations, announced by Secretary-General Tsuyoshi Yasukawa. OPBF title fights will now be limited to 10 rounds instead of 12 to enhance fighter safety.