Second fighter on August 2 card in Japan dies from brain injury

A second fighter of August 2 card in Tokyo has died. Hiromasa Urakawa, who was hospitalized with a brain injury after his eight-round knockout loss to Yoji Saito, has succumbed to his injuries. He was 28.

Urakawa died om Saturday after sustaining brain injuries in his knockout loss. Urakawa underwent a craniotomy to also treat a subdural hematoma.

“The WBO mourns the passing of Japanese boxer Hiromasa Urakawa, who tragically succumbed to injuries sustained during his fight against Yoji Saito on August 2 at Korakuen Hall in Tokyo,” the WBO announced Saturday on social media. “This heartbreaking news comes just days after the passing of Shigetoshi Kotari, who died from injuries suffered in his fight on the same card. We extend our deepest condolences to the families, friends, and the Japanese boxing community during this incredibly difficult time.”

On Friday, Shigetoshi Kotari, died from brain injuries he sustained in fight against Yamato Hata. Both fighters of that bout had brain surgeries, according to Japanese Boxing Commission. Hata is hospitalized, and reports indicate that he is in coma.