Shigetoshi Kotari dies at 28 after brain injury: How head injuries can turn fatal
On August 2, Kotari went the full 12 rounds against Yamato Hata in Tokyo.
The bout ended in a split draw, and from the outside, it seemed like just another night in the ring. But moments after the match, Kotari collapsed in his corner.
Scans later revealed a subdural hematoma; a severe brain bleed caused by trauma. Despite emergency surgery, Kotari never regained consciousness. He passed away on August 8, leaving the boxing world in grief.
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…
pic.twitter.com/PjZtDyBIU2
— WBO (@WorldBoxingOrg)
August 8, 2025
When a brain bleed becomes life-threatening
A subdural hematoma occurs when blood collects between the brain and its outer covering (the dura mater).
In Kotari's case, repeated blows to the head likely caused tiny veins to tear, allowing blood to pool and put pressure on the brain.
The danger lies in the fact that the brain has nowhere to expand inside the rigid skull. Even a small bleed can lead to swelling, cutting off oxygen supply to critical areas. If not treated immediately, this pressure can cause permanent brain damage, or, as in Kotari's case, be fatal.
Why some head injuries seem invisible
One of the most alarming truths about head trauma is that symptoms can be delayed.
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In Kotari's fight, there were no dramatic knockdowns or visible distress during the match. Fighters often continue through pain, adrenaline masking early signs like dizziness or blurred vision. By the time obvious symptoms, such as severe headache, vomiting, or collapse, appear, the damage may already be advanced.
This is why experts stress immediate post-fight evaluations and advanced ringside monitoring, even when a boxer seems fine.
What can reduce the risk
After Kotari's passing, the Japan Boxing Commission reduced OPBF future title fights from 12 rounds to 10. While this is a step forward, experts believe there's more to be done:
Mandatory MRI scans before and after high-intensity matches to detect subtle changes in brain tissue.
Extended recovery periods between fights, especially after any head trauma.
Advanced ringside medical equipment for rapid diagnosis of bleeds.
These measures may not eliminate risk completely but can improve survival chances by enabling faster treatment.
traumatic brain injury
. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice.]
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