Japanese Boxer Shigetoshi Kotari Dead at 28 After Sustaining Brain Injury During Title Fight

Japanese boxer Shigetoshi Kotari has died. He was 28.

“Rest in peace, Shigetoshi Kotari 🕊,” the World Boxing Organization wrote in a Friday, August 8, statement shared via X. “The boxing world mourns the tragic passing of Japanese fighter Shigetoshi Kotari, who succumbed to injuries sustained during his August 2nd title fight.”

The message continued, “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 competed in a super featherweight title fight against Yamato Hata in Tokyo on August 2, where he was knocked unconscious at one point during the match. According to a press release shared via the Japan Boxing Commission, Kotari was rushed to the hospital. Doctors confirmed he had a subdural hematoma and required emergency brain surgery.

The late athlete previously teased his training process going into the match, which was ultimately ruled a tie.

“I’ve made it through the weigh-in,” Kotari wrote via Instagram on August 1. “The time has finally come. I’m going to bet everything. I’ve built up until now and go for the win. I’ll definitely become the champion.”

He continued at the time, “Please support me tomorrow at the venue and on the U-NEXT live stream.”

The matchup, Kotari said in a social media post last month, was his “first title challenge.”

The boxing community has come together in the wake of Kotari’s death, sharing emotional tributes in honor of the late athlete.

“RIP to this modern day gladiator Shigetoshi Kotari,” commentator Max Calendrillo wrote via X, sharing footage from the August 2 bout. “Applauded by the fans in his final [conscious] moments. Heartbreaking.”

Boxer Daniel Roman also shared his condolences.

“I am saddened to hear the news that my brother Shigetoshi Kotari has passed away. My sincere condolences to your family, fans and friends,” Roman, 34, wrote via X. “I hope that you are at peace and will continue to keep your family in my prayers. RIP Champ.”

Roman retweeted a post from Kotari’s brother, as well.

“Shigeri Kamiashi has passed away to heaven,” the message read.  “Thank you very much for all the love during their lifetime.”

A second tribute read, “Aramotokun swore to become the champion at Shige’s final moment. So I absolutely believe he’ll achieve it!”

Kotari’s brother also noted that Exile’s song “One Love” reminded him of his late sibling.

“Shige, don’t just remember. Please don’t forget,” he wrote on Saturday, August 9, sharing a carousel of family photos. “Please, I beg you.”