23-year-old Japanese boxer Kazuki Anaguchi dies from injuries sustained in fight

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BOXING 23-year-old Japanese boxer Kazuki Anaguchi dies from injuries sustained in fight

Festus Chuma 09:27 - 03.02.2024

Young Japanese boxer tragically dies at 23 from brain injury sustained in a Boxing Day match in Tokyo.

Japanese boxer Kazuki Anaguchi has succumbed to injuries sustained during a Boxing Day match in Tokyo.

The 23-year-old promising talent in the boxing world faced a tragic end following a severe brain injury incurred during a fight against Seiya Tsutsumi.

Anaguchi, previously undefeated with six professional wins, was part of the undercard for the highly anticipated bout between Naoya Inoue and Marlon Tapales.

Despite being knocked down four times, Anaguchi displayed remarkable resilience, lasting until the final bell. 

However, the toll of the match was immediately apparent as he struggled to stand, requiring assistance from his team.

"Rest in peace, Kazuki Anaguchi. Prayers up for those he's left behind," promoter Lou Dibella expressed on social media.

The severity of Anaguchi's condition became evident when he lost consciousness in the ambulance en route to the hospital.

He underwent emergency surgery to remove a subdural hematoma, a severe condition involving blood collecting between the brain and its outermost covering.

 Despite the medical team's efforts, Anaguchi never regained consciousness, leading to his untimely demise.

Anaguchi's death has sent shockwaves through the boxing community, prompting reflections on the sport's risks and the safety of its athletes. 

"Another reminder of #boxing's deadly risks and the importance of best protecting our fighters from them," Dibella's statement further emphasized the tragedy's impact.

"Top Rank joins the boxing community in mourning the passing of Kazuki Anaguchi," said Inoue's American promoter in a statement to ESPN.

 "We send our sincerest condolences to his family and loved ones." 

The aftermath of Anaguchi's death has reignited discussions around the safety protocols in professional boxing.

His undefeated streak and potential as a rising star in the sport make his loss even more poignant. 

The boxing community is now grappling with the balance between the sport's inherent risks and the need for adequate safety measures to protect its athletes.

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