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WKA’s Most Notable Champions

 #12


 The Legends Who Defined Kickboxing and Karate




By Dr Paul Martin (HonDSc), WKA Vice President





Benny "the Jet" Urquidez vs. Shinobu Onuki

Tokyo, Japan - April 29, 1978



The World Kickboxing and Karate Association (WKA) has been instrumental in shaping the careers of legendary fighters, establishing a platform where talent, dedication, and discipline are rewarded at the highest level. For decades, WKA champions have embodied the very essence of martial arts—passion, perseverance, and unparalleled skill—leaving an indelible mark on the sport.

These fighters have transcended mere competition, becoming ambassadors of martial arts, inspiring new generations to push beyond their limits and redefine the standards of excellence. Their influence extends far beyond the ring, impacting the global martial arts community through coaching, mentorship, media presence, and the continued evolution of training methodologies.


Pioneers Who Built the Foundation


The early champions of the WKA were more than just fighters—they were trailblazers. Competing in an era where kickboxing and karate lacked widespread recognition, these martial artists helped establish credibility for the sport, demonstrating its depth, technical brilliance, and competitive intensity. By participating in high-profile international events, they captured the imagination of audiences worldwide, proving that martial arts could thrive as a global phenomenon.

Names like Benny “The Jet” Urquidez, Rob Kaman, and Jean-Yves Thériault set the standard for future generations. Their victories were not just personal triumphs, but milestones for the sport, solidifying WKA’s reputation as a premier governing body. These athletes paved the way for modern competitors by proving that kickboxing and karate deserved a place alongside the world’s most respected combat disciplines.


The Evolution of a Champion


As martial arts evolved, so too did the champions who represented the WKA. The next wave of fighters introduced innovative techniques, new training philosophies, and unprecedented levels of athleticism, pushing the sport to new heights. The fusion of traditional martial arts with modern strength and conditioning programs allowed fighters to reach peak performance, creating a new breed of athletes who combined raw power with technical precision.

From devastating knockout artists to tactical masterminds, WKA champions have demonstrated the diversity of skill sets within kickboxing and karate. Some excelled in the art of striking, delivering explosive KO’s that left fans in awe, while others relied on exceptional footwork, defense, and ring intelligence to outmaneuver their opponents. This constant evolution of fighting styles has made WKA events a spectacle of martial arts mastery, drawing worldwide audiences and elevating the prestige of the sport.

The WKA title signifies that its holder must be capable of defending against any fighting style worldwide, whether facing a kung fu practitioner or a kickboxer.


Beyond the Ring: The Lasting Influence of WKA Champions


The impact of WKA champions does not end when the final bell rings. Many former titleholders have taken on leadership roles as trainers, promoters, and advocates for martial arts education. By opening dojos, coaching future stars, and contributing to the development of competition standards, these fighters ensure that the next generation has access to the knowledge and resources needed to succeed.

Additionally, the global reach of social media and digital platforms has allowed WKA legends to engage with fans, share training insights, and keep the martial arts community connected. Their presence in documentaries, online tutorials, and live events continues to inspire millions, reinforcing the values of discipline, respect, and relentless pursuit of greatness.


A Timeless Martial Arts Legacy


From the pioneers who laid the foundation to the modern warriors redefining excellence, the World Kickboxing and Karate Association champions represent the enduring spirit of martial arts. Their contributions extend beyond personal accolades, influencing the sport’s development and inspiring new generations of fighters to chase their dreams.

Through hard work, sacrifice, and an unbreakable will to succeed, these athletes have cemented their place in history. The WKA legacy lives on in every punch thrown, every kick landed, and every young martial artist who steps onto the mat with ambition in their heart. This is not just a history of champions—it is a testament to the power of martial arts to transform lives, build character, and create legends that will be remembered for generations to come

The World Kickboxing and Karate Association (WKA) is a cornerstone in martial arts history, renowned for cultivating and celebrating some of the sport’s most extraordinary champions. Since 1976, the WKA has provided a platform for elite fighters to showcase their skills on a global stage, earning its reputation as a premier governing body in kickboxing and karate.

These athletes, hailing from diverse backgrounds and disciplines, have achieved remarkable success in the ring and left a legacy, shaping the evolution of martial arts through their dedication, innovation, and exceptional talent. 

Below is a comprehensive list of World Champions who have achieved greatness under the banner of the WKA.


The Pioneers of the 1970s


  1. Benny “The Jet” Urquidez – A true pioneer of kickboxing, dominating multiple weight divisions.

  2. Howard Jackson – One of the earliest WKA champions, setting a standard for future generations.


Dominance in the 1980s


  1. Don “The Dragon” Wilson – A multiple-time world champion with an impressive fighting career.

  2. Rob “The Dutchman” Kaman – Known for his devastating leg kicks and dominance in the middleweight division.

  3. Ronnie Green – A technical genius in lighter-weight classes.

  4. Peter “Sugarfoot” Cunningham – A stylish and precise striker in the lightweight and super lightweight categories.

  5. Maurice Smith – A powerful force in the heavyweight division.

  6. James Warring – A key figure in the cruiserweight ranks.

  7. Stan Longinidis – One of the most dominant heavyweights of the era.

  8. Branko Cikatić – A fierce European champion who later transitioned to K-1.

  9. Richard Sylla – A force to be reckoned with in the welterweight category.

  10. Fred Royers – Middleweight champion known for his sharp techniques.

  11. Jean-Yves Thériault – One of the most celebrated fighters of his time.

  12. Graciela Casillas – A groundbreaking female fighter who paved the way for women in kickboxing.


The Evolution of the 1990s


  1. Andy Hug – A beloved champion known for his axe kicks and K-1 success.

  2. Ernesto Hoost – A dominant fighter who later became a K-1 legend.

  3. Rick Roufus – A powerhouse in the middleweight and cruiserweight divisions.

  4. Kathy Long – A trailblazer in women’s kickboxing and martial arts.

  5. Dale "Apollo" Cook – A fighter who excelled in both kickboxing and MMA.

  6. Denis “The Terminator” Alexio – A dominant heavyweight champion.

  7. Peter "The Hurricane" Smith - Developed himself as an absolute top fighter in three of the hardest fight sports in the world.

The 2000s and Beyond


  1. Giorgio Petrosyan – A technical mastermind in the lightweight division.

  2. Andy Souwer – A two-time world champion with elite striking skills.

  3. Yodsanklai Fairtex – A devastating knockout artist in Muay Thai and kickboxing.

  4. Artem Levin – A decorated middleweight champion with incredible footwork.

  5. Regian Eersel – A recent champion making waves in the lightweight category.


Join the Conversation: Honoring the Legacy of WKA Champions


The impact of WKA champions goes far beyond competition; their dedication has shaped the very fabric of martial arts. From the early pioneers who built the foundation to the modern warriors who continue to push boundaries, these athletes embody the relentless pursuit of greatness. Their victories, sacrifices, and contributions have elevated kickboxing and karate to global prominence, ensuring the sport’s future remains strong.

But the legacy of martial arts is not just written by champions—it is carried forward by fans, practitioners, and supporters who keep the spirit alive.

Now, we’d love to hear from you!

  • Which WKA champion has inspired you the most?
  • What are your thoughts on the evolution of kickboxing and karate under the WKA?
  • How do you see the future of the sport unfolding?

Share your thoughts, memories, and insights in the comments below. Let’s celebrate the history, honor the legends, and continue the conversation about the incredible journey of WKA fighters.


The legacy continues—with you.


📖 Want to explore more about martial arts history? 

Dive into The Legacy, the ultimate book on the evolution of kickboxing and karate!


👉 Read The Legacy today!



#MartialArtsHistory #WKAChampions #FightingLegacy #LegendsOfKickboxing #KarateHistory #TheLegacyBook #WKA #KickboxingHistory #MartialArtsLegends #FightForLegacy #MustReadForFighters






Location: Cambridge, UK

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