Ginjiro Shigeoka stretchered off after loss to Pedro Taduran

The Philippines’ Pedro Taduran and Japan’s Ginjiro Shigeoka exchange blows during the world title fight in Osaka, Japan. Taduran won to keep the IBF minimumweight title.–CONTRIBUTED PHOTO/Wendell Alinea

There was a great deal of cause for concern for Ginjiro Shigeoka after the former Japanese champion was stretchered off the ring following his loss to Pedro Taduran in their world title fight on Saturday in Osaka, Japan.

Shortly after the 12-round slugfest, Shigeoka appeared to have lost consciousness while slumped into his corner that immediately prompted medical assistance.

READ: Pedro Taduran beats Ginjiro Shigeoka again to retain IBF crown

The 25-year-old Shigeoka went for broke in his rematch with Taduran in a spirited attempt to regain the IBF minimumweight crown.

Taduran, however, picked up where he left off and showed the same aggressiveness he had when he upset Shigeoka in their brutal July 2024 bout that saw the Filipino winning by stoppage in the ninth round.

This time though, the 28-year-old Taduran needed the full rounds to eke out a split decision victory over the gritty Shigeoka.

Taduran improved to 18-4 with 13 knockouts and dealt Shigeoka the second loss of his career.