Japanese boxer Shigetoshi Kotari has passed away at the age of 28 due to injuries sustained in a title fight with Yamato Hata, which took place just six days ago.
The talented fighter had to be rushed to hospital following the bout on August 2 to undergo an emergency brain surgery on a subdural hematoma.
Kotari required a craniotomy – an operation which automatically forces a Japanese boxer to retire due to laws in the country’s boxing governing body- and two days after undergoing the procedure, the Japan Boxing Commission confirmed he remained under observation.
Almost a week on from the title fight, the commission has now confirmed via social media that Kotari has succumbed to his injuries.
“Rest in peace, Shigetoshi Kotari,” the statement started. “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. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family, team, and the entire Japanese boxing community.”
