**Introduction**
The recent death of Japanese boxer Shigetoshi Kotari, aged 28, following his bout with Yamato Hata on August 2, 2025, has prompted significant concern within the boxing community regarding athlete safety. In response, the Japan Boxing Commission announced a reduction in the number of rounds for Oriental and Pacific Boxing Federation (OPBF) title bouts from 12 to 10. This decision aligns with similar measures previously implemented by the World Boxing Council (WBC) and the World Boxing Organization (WBO) to enhance fighter safety.
**Historical Context**
The issue of boxing-related fatalities has a longstanding history. A pivotal moment occurred in 1982 with the death of Korean boxer Duk Koo Kim after a 14-round bout against Ray Mancini. This tragedy led to the WBC’s decision to reduce championship fights from 15 to 12 rounds in 1983, aiming to decrease the risk of severe injuries. ([en.wikipedia.org](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kim_Duk-koo?utm_source=openai))
**Fact-Check of Specific Claims**
**Claim #1: The WBC and WBO have reduced championship fight rounds to enhance fighter safety.**
This claim is accurate. In 2020, the WBC, based on its Medical Committee’s recommendation, unanimously voted to reduce all affiliated championship fights from 12 to 10 rounds, with only World Championship and Silver Championship fights remaining at 12 rounds. ([wbcboxing.com](https://wbcboxing.com/en/wbc-president-says-less-rounds-in-affiliated-championship-fights-means-safer-boxing/?utm_source=openai)) Similarly, WBO President Gustavo Olivieri has expressed strong opposition to reinstating 15-round championship bouts, emphasizing that such a move would be a “clear step backward” for fighter safety. ([worldboxingnews.net](https://www.worldboxingnews.net/boxing-15-rounds-backward-wbo-president/?utm_source=openai))
**Claim #2: Reducing the number of rounds in boxing matches decreases the risk of brain injuries.**
This claim is supported by medical research. A systematic review and meta-analysis published in the Clinical Journal of Sport Medicine found that boxers have a significantly elevated risk of sustaining concussions compared to other combat sports. The study suggests that reducing the number of rounds could potentially lower the cumulative risk of brain injuries. ([journals.lww.com](https://journals.lww.com/cjsportsmed/fulltext/2023/11000/a_systematic_review_and_meta_analysis.14.aspx?utm_source=openai))
**Claim #3: The Japan Boxing Commission’s decision to shorten OPBF title bouts to 10 rounds is a response to recent fatalities.**
This claim is accurate. Following the deaths of Kotari and another boxer, Hiromasa Urakawa, the Japan Boxing Commission announced the reduction of OPBF title bouts from 12 to 10 rounds. This decision reflects a proactive approach to enhance the safety of boxers in the region. ([en.wikipedia.org](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Professional_boxing?utm_source=openai))
**Conclusion**
The article accurately reports on the tragic death of Shigetoshi Kotari and the subsequent safety measures implemented by boxing organizations. The reduction in the number of rounds for championship bouts by the WBC, WBO, and the Japan Boxing Commission aligns with ongoing efforts to mitigate the risks associated with boxing. These measures are supported by medical research indicating that limiting the duration of matches can decrease the likelihood of severe brain injuries.
**Take Action Now**
To stay informed and protect yourself from misinformation, consider downloading the DBUNK app. With DBUNK, you can access verified facts and gain a clearer understanding of news articles. Join a growing community that values truth and accuracy.
[Download the DBUNK App](https://getdbunk.app.link/sn37QYKSVTb)
[Link to Original Article](https://www.bbc.com/sport/boxing/articles/cvgv4ryg5rqo)
