Tokyo, Japan — The world of boxing has suffered a tragic loss with the passing of Hiromasa Urakawa, a promising young Japanese boxer, who died on August 9, 2025, at the age of 28. His death came seven days after he fell unconscious during a sixth-round loss to Yoji Saito at Tokyo’s Korakuen Hall. Tragically, Urakawa sustained a brain injury, and despite undergoing craniotomy brain surgery, he could not recover.
What Happened
On August 2, 2025, Urakawa participated in a boxing match against Yoji Saito in Tokyo. After a challenging sixth round, Urakawa lost consciousness and collapsed, prompting immediate medical attention. Like fellow boxer Shigetoshi Kotari, who also suffered a fatal injury during the same event, Urakawa sustained a brain bleed. He underwent emergency surgery, but his condition worsened over the following days. On August 9, 2025, the World Boxing Organization (WBO) confirmed that Urakawa had passed away due to his brain injury.
Who Was Hiromasa Urakawa
Hiromasa Urakawa, born in 1997, was a rising star in the Japanese boxing scene. Known for his speed, strength, and determination, Urakawa was respected by his peers and fans alike. He was dedicated to his sport and had shown great promise in his professional boxing career before his tragic and untimely death. Urakawa’s passing has left a significant impact on the Japanese boxing community and has reignited discussions about the safety of boxers and the risks they face in the ring.
Background or Timeline
Urakawa’s tragic death occurred during a fateful night at Korakuen Hall in Tokyo, where both Urakawa and Shigetoshi Kotari suffered severe injuries. Kotari was also involved in a fatal incident on the same day, which cast a shadow over the event and brought attention to the dangers of combat sports. After Urakawa’s collapse and subsequent surgery, his family and fans hoped for a recovery, but he ultimately succumbed to his injuries on August 9, 2025.
Public or Social Media Reaction
The loss of Urakawa has sent shockwaves through the boxing world, with fans and fellow boxers paying tribute to his skill, passion, and spirit. Many have expressed their condolences on social media, sharing their memories of Urakawa as a fighter who was admired not just for his talent but also for his sportsmanship and kindness outside the ring.
Official Statement or What Happens Next
Following Urakawa’s passing, the World Boxing Organization (WBO) has issued a statement expressing its condolences to Urakawa’s family and the Japanese boxing community. They highlighted the risks inherent in the sport and vowed to continue advocating for improved safety measures in boxing.
The event has sparked renewed conversations about the safety protocols in combat sports, with calls for better monitoring of boxers’ health and the potential for changes in regulations to protect athletes.
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This story may be updated with more information as it becomes available.
