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Behind The Belt

 #16



What It Really Takes to Be a WKA World Champion



By Dr Paul Martin (HonDSc), WKA Vice President



2012 WKA World Title Fight - Arkadiusz Kaczmarek vs Gareth Richards

Becoming a WKA World Champion is more than just winning fights—it’s about transforming your entire life around a singular pursuit: greatness. As Vice President of the World Kickboxing and Karate Association, I’ve had the privilege of watching the journey of countless athletes. Their paths may vary, but the underlying themes remain the same: relentless dedication, unyielding discipline, and an ironclad mindset forged in adversity.

The Early Grind

Before the lights, the cameras, and the titles, there is the grind. Most champions begin their journey in modest Dojos or local gyms. They don’t have flashy sponsors or viral highlight reels. They have grit. Hours of drilling the same techniques, day after day. Blistered feet, bruised ribs, aching muscles—these are the daily companions of a future champion.

The Sacrifice

Behind every champion lies a profound journey marked by sacrifice and commitment. Social lives often dwindle, placed on the back burner as relentless training sessions consume their time. Family gatherings become distant memories, with cherished moments missed in the relentless quest for greatness. Once filled with cake and laughter, birthdays are now acknowledged with the ritual of protein shakes, a reminder of the focus required for success. The pursuit of a WKA World Title is unyielding, pressing on without regard for holidays or moments of comfort, driven by an unwavering desire to achieve excellence.

Training Like a Champion

The training regimen of a world-class WKA fighter is as intense as it is calculated. Physical conditioning, technical sparring, strategy sessions, mental coaching—each day is planned to the minute. Fighters cross-train in different disciplines, adapt to diverse opponents, and constantly evolve.



Don “The Dragon” Wilson, one of the most iconic champions in the history of kickboxing, epitomized this dedication. Known for his powerful kicks and calculated fighting style, Wilson trained relentlessly, combining martial arts precision with the heart of a warrior. His regimen included early morning conditioning, technical sparring, and continuous strategy refinement. But what truly set him apart was his ability to remain calm and focused under pressure—a trait that made him a multiple-time world champion and a living legend in the WKA.

The Mental Game

Ask any WKA World Champion, and they’ll tell you that the mind is the most powerful weapon. Confidence, focus, and resilience are non-negotiable. Champions train their minds just as hard as their bodies.

Visualization techniques, breathing exercises, and positive self-talk are core elements. The WKA has invested heavily in athlete support, including sports psychologists and mental resilience workshops. It’s not just about physical strength; it’s about getting back up after a loss, maintaining clarity under pressure, and staying humble in victory.

Climbing the Ladder

The road to the top of the WKA is structured but challenging. Fighters must prove themselves in regional competitions, national championships, and international showdowns. Along the way, they earn ranking points, visibility, and experience against increasingly elite opponents.

Each fight is a test not just of skill, but of preparation and composure. One mistake can cost a title shot. One brilliant performance can change a life.

The Legacy

For many, becoming a WKA World Champion is a dream. For those who achieve it, it becomes a responsibility. Champions are role models. They inspire the next generation. They represent not only their countries but also the values of the WKA: respect, perseverance, honor, and courage.

Some go on to open their own gyms, mentor young fighters, or even transition into film and media. But all carry with them the lessons learned on the road to the belt.

Final Thoughts

If you’re intrigued by the untold stories and rich history behind champions and the evolution of kickboxing and karate, I invite you to explore my book, The Legacy. 

It’s a deep dive into the rise of the World Kickboxing and Karate Association, the pioneers who shaped it, and the enduring values that continue to inspire generations. 

Now available on Amazon — your journey into the heart of martial arts history starts here.


👉 Grab your copy now on Amazon: The Legacy"



Behind every WKA World Title lies a story of pain, persistence, and passion. It’s not an easy path, and it’s not meant to be. The belt doesn’t just signify victory in the ring—it represents victory over doubt, struggle, and fear.

So the next time you see a fighter step onto the WKA world stage, know you’re not just watching a competitor. You’re witnessing the culmination of years of unseen sacrifice and indomitable spirit.


That’s what it really takes to be a WKA World Champion.


#TheLegacyBook #WKAChampion #MartialArtsJourney #NeverGiveUp #MartialArtsMindset #ChampionsJourney



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