Japan Boxing Commission Plans Emergency Meeting After Two Fighter Deaths

Japanese boxing authorities are convening an emergency meeting following the deaths of two 28-year-old fighters, Shigetoshi Kotari and Hiromasa Urakawa, who both required brain surgery after their bouts at the same event in Tokyo. The Japan Boxing Commission (JBC) acknowledges its responsibility and is committed to implementing safety measures, including discussions with trainers about risky weight loss practices that may contribute to brain injuries. Media reports emphasize that rapid dehydration before weigh-ins increases susceptibility to brain bleeding, a factor the JBC aims to address. As an immediate safety action, the JBC has reduced all Oriental and Pacific Boxing Federation title fights from 12 rounds to 10, citing the increased offensive power and intensity of Japanese boxing. Officials plan further talks about safety protocols next month, seeking insights from gym officials closely working with athletes on conditioning and weight management. This crisis highlights the growing concern over boxer health amid the sport's rising competitiveness in Japan.