Shigetoshi Kotari passes away at 28 after tragic brain injury following fight against Yamato Hata

Shigetoshi Kotari, a promising 28-year-old Japanese boxer, has died just six days after a major title fight. He entered the ring at Tokyo's Korakuen Hall on August 2 to fight Yamato Hata for the OPBF super featherweight title.

He went 12 full rounds, ending in a split draw. Moments later, however, Shigetoshi Kotari collapsed in his corner. He was taken to the hospital where doctors discovered a life-threatening brain bleed and performed emergency surgery. However, he never came to. His death has shaken the boxing world in Japan and beyond.

What happened in Shigetoshi Kotari’s final fight and the emergency surgery

In his bout on August 2 against Yamato Hata, Shigetoshi Kotari appeared to be in it for all 12 rounds, showing no clear signs of distress.

After the decision was announced he stated that he felt ill, and then collapsed. Medical staff rushed him to a hospital in Tokyo. Scans showed that he sustained a subdural hematoma, a serious brain injury that occurs from bleeding between the brain and skull.

Surgeons performed a craniotomy to relieve pressure. The Japan Boxing Commission later confirmed that on the same night, another fighter, Hiromasa Urakawa, also required a similar surgery after his match.

Both were placed under strict medical observation, but Kotari’s condition did not improve, leading to his passing on August 8.

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How the boxing world reacts to Shigetoshi Kotari’s tragedy and new safety measures follow

The World Boxing Organization released a heartfelt statement: “Rest in peace, Shigetoshi Kotari. A warrior in the ring. A fighter in spirit. Gone too soon.”Supporters, coaches, and fellow fighters posted on social media regarding their sorrow over Kotari's loss, and speaking on his skills, but also on his commitment to the sport and fairness. Though born in Nagoya, Shigetoshi Kotari fought out of Kanagawa. An experienced boxer with a professional record of eight victories, two draws, and two losses was he. When he fought Hata, he was coming off two straight wins.In response to his death, the Japan Boxing Commission announced it will only sanction 10 Rounds for future OPBF title wins from the 12 Rounds in an effort to prevent him and others from suffering similar injuries. Though welcomed, many in the boxing community will say Shigetoshi Kotari's death will leave a lasting impact on boxing.