Former IBF strawweight champion Ginjiro Shigeoka is currently under observation at a private hospital in Osaka, Japan, after undergoing a craniotomy following his split decision loss to Pedro Taduran over the weekend. A craniotomy is a surgical procedure that involves removing part of the skull to access the brain, often performed in cases of severe brain injury.

Shigeoka, 25, suffered an acute subdural hematoma during the fight, a life-threatening condition where blood accumulates between the brain and its outer covering. This injury led to his collapse in the ring shortly after the decision was announced, requiring him to be stretchered out of the arena. This marks the second time Shigeoka has collapsed after a bout with Taduran; the first occurred in July, which Taduran won by a ninth-round stoppage.

Despite previously undergoing surgery for a fractured orbital bone and being medically cleared for the rematch, Shigeoka's latest injury has forced him into retirement. The International Boxing Federation (IBF) released a statement expressing their concern and support for Shigeoka, emphasizing the impact of this incident on the boxing community.

According to the Japanese Boxing Commission (JBC), any fighter who undergoes brain surgery is automatically disqualified from obtaining a boxing license, effectively ending their career. Viva Promotions, Shigeoka's promoter, confirmed his retirement on social media, stating that he remains under observation in Osaka.

Shigeoka's career highlights include an impressive amateur record of 56-1, with his only loss coming against his older brother, Yudai Shigeoka. He turned professional in 2018, quickly amassing an 11-0 record with 9 knockouts. In 2023, he claimed the IBF strawweight title by defeating Daniel Valladares via knockout, successfully defending it once before his two losses to Taduran.

Sean Gibbons of Viva Promotions praised Shigeoka's resilience, calling him a 'true warrior' and expressing heartfelt wishes for his recovery. The boxing world now reflects on the risks inherent in the sport, as Shigeoka's career comes to an abrupt and somber conclusion.