Writing "The Legacy"

#2 

Challenges, Triumphs, and Unexpected Discoveries

By Dr Paul Martin (HonDSc), WKA Vice President

Writing "The Legacy" was about telling a story and uncovering the fascinating World Kickboxing and Karate Association (WKA) journey. As the WKA Vice President and a lifelong martial artist, I knew that to honestly do justice to its legacy, I had to dive deep into its rich and storied past. The research process was exciting and challenging, revealing insights I hadn't fully appreciated.

Creating this book allowed me to explore decades of martial arts evolution, tracing the WKA's growth from its modest origins to its present-day status as a worldwide leader in combat sports.

I discovered that the organization's strength lay in its tournaments and championships and its commitment to fostering a global community of martial artists.

As I delved into the archives and interviewed long-standing members, I uncovered stories of perseverance, innovation, and unity that had shaped the WKA's identity. The founding members' vision of bringing unity to the martial art’s world resonated throughout the organization's history. This ethos of collaboration and growth mindset had been the driving force behind WKA's success in uniting diverse martial arts styles under one umbrella.

One of the most enlightening aspects of my research was understanding how the WKA had adapted to the changing landscape of martial arts over the years. Unlike some traditional organizations that struggled to remain relevant, the WKA consistently evolved, embracing new styles and technologies while respecting traditional values.

Writing this book also allowed me to reflect on my martial arts journey and my role within the WKA. 

It allowed me to appreciate the organization's impact on countless lives, including my own, shaping fighters, leaders, and community builders.

Creating "The Legacy" strengthened my belief in documenting our history and passing on our values to future generations of martial artists. It became clear that this book would serve as a record of past achievements and as a guidepost for the future direction of the WKA and the martial arts community.

The Research Process: A Deep Dive into WKA’s Archives

Researching the history of the WKA required sifting through decades of records, interviews, and competition footage. From exploring early rulebooks to analyzing landmark events, every discovery clarified how the association evolved from its humble beginnings into a global powerhouse.

I spent countless hours reviewing old tournament footage, speaking with pioneers of the sport, and examining official documents that charted the WKA’s expansion across continents. Each piece of information added depth and authenticity to "The Legacy," ensuring that the book would serve as a comprehensive tribute to the association’s enduring impact on martial arts.

Challenges Along the Way

Embarking on this research journey was akin to navigating a labyrinth filled with intrigue and obstacles. One of the most daunting challenges lay in tracking down early records, which often seemed like elusive ghosts—hidden in personal archives or scattered like jigsaw pieces across many sources. Reconstructing key historical events became a meticulous task requiring careful cross-referencing of various accounts. This rigorous process was essential for ensuring accuracy and weaving together a coherent narrative that would honor the complexities of history without succumbing to conflicting tales.

Another significant hurdle was striking the delicate balance between historical accuracy and engaging storytelling. It was imperative to present the facts precisely while crafting a narrative that captured the imagination of readers from all walks of life. The aspiration was to paint a vibrant, multi-dimensional portrait of the WKA’s history—one that would resonate deeply with seasoned martial arts enthusiasts and enchant those who are just beginning to explore the rich world of the sport.

Fascinating Discoveries

One of the most rewarding aspects of researching the WKA's history was uncovering the stories of pioneers who shaped the organization's journey. For example, Howard Hanson, the founder of the WKA in 1976, faced significant challenges in establishing kickboxing as a legitimate sport. He worked to standardize rules and regulations, introducing innovations such as allowing roundhouse kicks to the outer thigh, which was crucial for attracting Asian fighters to compete.

The research revealed the pivotal roles of key figures in the WKA's development. Benny Urquidez, known as "The Jet," was instrumental in establishing the WKA's credibility in Japan. His 1977 title defense against Katsuyuki Suzuki at the Budokan in Tokyo set a record for the most considerable monetary gate in sport Karate history. It was broadcast live on Japanese national television.

Another significant milestone was the creation of women's world championship divisions. Graciela Casillas made history by becoming the first professional athlete to hold world titles in Karate and boxing when she won the WKA Women's Bantamweight World title in 1979.

The WKA's global expansion was further propelled by figures like Paul Ingram, who took over the organization in 1994 and started the amateur world championships, hosting all styles of Kickboxing and Karate annually. These individuals, among others, played critical roles in shaping the WKA into the global organization it is today.

Preserving the Legacy

Through "The Legacy," I aspire to safeguard and celebrate the remarkable stories that define our journey, presenting them in a manner that truly honors the unwavering dedication and passion of all those who have contributed. The WKA transcends the role of a mere organization; it represents a powerful movement that has profoundly transformed countless lives and continues to inspire generations of martial artists. Each story is a powerful testament to resilience, commitment, and unwavering spirit, creating an intricate tapestry of shared experiences that reveal the profound depth of human determination and passion.

Join the Conversation

Writing "The Legacy" has deepened my appreciation for WKA’s incredible journey, and I’m excited to share more insights with you. 

Have you encountered any memorable WKA moments or personal experiences you'd like to share? 

I’d love to hear your thoughts—feel free to leave a comment below!

Stay tuned for more updates as we continue exploring the legacy of the WKA.

#TheLegacy, #Kickboxing, #HowardHanson, #TheJet, #BennyUrquidez, #GracielaCasillas, #50yearsWKA