‘Gone too soon’: Boxing world mourns as star tragically dies six days after title bout
Top boxer Shigetoshi Kotari has tragically died at just 28, six days after losing a title fight.
The Japanese brawler lost consciousness following a bout with Yamato Hata on August 2.
Kotari was rushed to hospital and had emergency brain surgery for a subdural haematoma.
However, he sadly succumbed to his injuries and passed away, The Sun reports.
His death was confirmed by the World Boxing Organisation.
Itauma vs Whyte & Goodman vs Ball | Sunday 17 August 3am AEST | Order this PPV event now with Main Event on Kayo Sports.
A statement read: “Rest in peace, Shigetoshi Kotari.
“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.”
Kotari had battled for 12 three-minute rounds against Hata for the OPBF Super Featherweight.
The fight ended in a draw, leaving Kotari with a record of eight wins, two draws and two losses.
Ahead of the title clash, he had won his previous two fights as he beat Riki Hamada and Jonniel Laurente.
Tributes to Kotari flooded in from fans on social media.
One posted: “Rest warrior.”
A second commented: “RIP Shigetoshi Kotari.”
A third commented: “Condolences to all family and friends.”
Following the emergency surgery of Kotari, the Japan Boxing Commission are set to enforce changes by the Secretary-General Tsuyoshi Yasukawa.
OPBF title fights will now be 10 rounds, having switched away from the previous 12.
This article originally appeared in The Sun and was reproduced with permission
