Japanese Boxer Kazuki Anaguchi tragically dies in hospital following defeat to Seiya Tsutsumi on Naoya Inoue undercard
Japanese Boxer Kazuki Anaguchi, aged 23, has sadly passed away after sustaining a brain injury during his December match against Seiya Tsutsumi. Anaguchi, who showed great promise and ambition, made the decision to challenge a more experienced opponent, which ultimately had fatal consequences. The boxing community is mourning the loss of Anaguchi and emphasizing the importance of recognizing the risks involved in the sport and protecting the fighters.
Anaguchi’s fatal injury occurred during a ten-round match on the undercard of Naoya Inoue’s successful bid for the undisputed super-bantamweight world titles against Marlon Tapales. While competing for the Japanese bantamweight title, Anaguchi experienced knockdowns in the fourth, seventh, ninth, and tenth rounds, leading to his ultimate defeat by decision. Following the bout, he lost consciousness and was immediately rushed to the hospital.
Despite undergoing an emergency craniotomy to address a subdural hematoma on his brain, Anaguchi tragically never regained consciousness. The Japanese Boxing Commission announced his passing on Friday, more than a month after the devastating incident, prompting an outpouring of grief from the boxing community.
Before transitioning to professional boxing in July 2021, Anaguchi had an impressive amateur record of 68-6. The fight against Tsutsumi was his first ten-round bout and his third fight in 2023. Despite his promising future, Anaguchi chose to challenge a more seasoned opponent, displaying the ambition expected of young prospects. Unfortunately, this decision had dire consequences.
The untimely death of Anaguchi serves as a reminder of the potential dangers within the ring. Tragic incidents involving boxers such as Patrick Day and Maxim Dadashev should never be reduced to mere statistics. The inherent risks in boxing demand constant acknowledgement, ensuring that fans remain aware and compassionate rather than becoming desensitized to the dangers faced by athletes.
The boxing community has expressed their grief and paid tribute to Anaguchi. One individual wrote, I just received news that Kazuki Anaguchi has passed away. WE LOVE YOU BROTHER! #rip He passed giving us one of the greatest fights I’ve ever seen live. It saddens me so much that our community witnessed this, but I’m grateful that we got to see this man. Prayers to his family.
Promoter Lou Di Bella also paid his respects, stating, Rest in peace, Kazuki Anaguchi. Prayers up for those he’s left behind. Another reminder of boxing’s deadly risks and the importance of best protecting our fighters from them.
The tragic loss of Kazuki Anaguchi at such a young age has deeply impacted the boxing world. It serves as a solemn reminder of the risks inherent to the sport and the responsibility to prioritize the safety and well-being of its participants. The legacy of Anaguchi will forever be remembered, and his passing will serve as a catalyst for ongoing discussions on fighter protection and the preservation of the sport’s integrity.
