The WBC pays tribute to Kazuki Anaguchi

The WBC mourns the death of Kazuki Anaguchi

The sad news of Japanese boxer Kazuki Anaguchi's untimely passing pushed the entire boxing world into mourning when it was announced on February 2, 2024.

The talented bantamweight was hospitalised after injuries suffered in his points defeat to Seiya Tsutsumi on Boxing Day last year. The 23-year-old was challenging for the Japanese bantamweight title on the Naoya Inoue vs Marlon Tapales undisputed super-bantamweight clash. He was 6-0 but experienced his first pro loss with scores of 92-94 twice and 91-95 to his fellow unbeaten countryman, who moved up to 10-0-2. Tsutsumi has knocked out seven of his 12 foes, so is known for being very heavy-handed.

Anaguchi was shown with his legs twitching as his corner tended to a cut. He was then rushed to hospital straight after the fight, before emergency brain surgery was performed. Anaguchi remained unconscious following the surgery before his death on Friday.

The World Boxing Council paid tribute to the fighter with an official statement mourning the tragic loss of life.

"The WBC and its President Mauricio Sulaimán deeply mourn the passing of Japanese boxer Kazuki Anaguchi at 23 years old.

"Kazuki died as a result of injuries sustained in his loss to Seiya Tsutsumi, as part of the Naoya Inoue vs. Marlon Tapales, on December 26.

"Anaguchi began his career with a perfect 6-0 record, leading to a 10-round fight against Tsutsumi in Tokyo. In his fourth professional fight, Anaguchi defeated three-time former world title challenger Jonathan Taconing, winning every round on all three official cards.

"The bantamweight bout with Tsutsumi was an exciting fight in which Anaguchi kept the fight close despite being knocked down in rounds 4, 7, 9 and 10 before losing by scores of 95-91, 94-92 and 94- 92.

"After the fight, Anaguchi appeared in his corner with his legs twitching. His Seconds tended to him and was immediately taken to a nearby hospital, where he underwent emergency brain surgery. Kazuki remained unconscious until he passed away today.

"We send our deepest condolences to the family and friends of Kazuki Anaguchi at this very difficult and sad time.

May he rest in eternal peace."

Anaguchi held an amateur record of 68-6 before his pro debut in July 2021.

GBN would also like to offer the deepest condolences to Kazuki's family and friends.