BOXER Shigetoshi Kotari has tragically died after losing a title fight against Yamato Hata.
The Japanese brawler lost consciousness following the bout on August 2.
Kotari, 28, was rushed to hospital and had emergency brain surgery for a subdural hematoma.
However, he sadly succumbed to his injuries and passed away.
His death was confirmed by the World Boxing Organisation earlier today.
A statement read: “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 with his family, team, and the entire Japanese boxing community.”
Kotari had battled for 12 three-minute rounds against Hata for the OPBF Super Featherweight.
The fight ended in a draw, leaving Kotari with a record of eight wins, two draws and two losses.
Ahead of the title clash, he had won his previous two fights as he beat Riki Hamada and Jonniel Laurente.
Tributes to Kotari flooded in from fans on social media.
One posted: “Rest warrior.”
A second commented: “RIP Shigetoshi Kotari.”
A third commented: “Condolences to all family and friends.”
Following the emergency surgery of Kotari the Japan Boxing Commission are set to enforce changes by the Secretary-General Tsuyoshi Yasukawa.
OPBF title fights will now be 10 rounds, having switched away from the previous 12.
