Esther Salifu
In the wake of two boxers deaths from brain injuries sustained during the same event, Japanese boxing authorities have swiftly implemented new safety measures, including stricter weight management protocols and enhanced medical preparedness, to prevent future tragedies.
The Japan Boxing Commission (JBC) and the Japan Pro Boxing Association (JPBA) convened an emergency meeting on Tuesday after the deaths of 28-year-old fighters Shigetoshi Kotari and Hiromasa Urakawa, who suffered fatal injuries in separate bouts at Tokyo’s Korakuen Hall on August 2.
“We are acutely aware of our responsibility as the manager of the sport,” said JBC Secretary-General Tsuyoshi Yasukochi. “We will take whatever measures we can.”
The new safety measures include mandatory urine tests to monitor dehydration, stricter regulations on rapid weight loss, the requirement of ambulances on-site for all bouts (not just world championships), partnerships with hospitals equipped for emergency surgeries, and new rules governing the timing of sparring sessions before fights.
Additionally, all Oriental and Pacific Boxing Federation (OPBF) title bouts in Japan will be reduced from 12 to 10 rounds.
JPBA President Shoji Kobayashi expressed deep regret over the incidents, stating, “We gathered today to establish a plan towards zero accidents.”
An accident investigation committee will be formed to determine the exact causes of the boxers’ deaths and to provide updated guidance on prevention measures.
The JBC and JPBA plan to hold a safety meeting later this month, involving doctors and the amateur boxing federation, to further discuss and implement safety protocols.
These reforms aim to enhance boxer protection and prevent future tragedies in the sport.
