Behind the Scenes of the WKA World Championships 2025: Vision, Preparation, and Legacy

As Vice President of the World Kickboxing and Karate Association (WKA), I’ve had the honour of witnessing firsthand what it takes to bring a global martial arts championship to life. With the 2025 WKA World Championships just around the corner, I want to take you behind the scenes of this monumental event — one that blends elite sport, cultural unity, and a historic milestone for our organisation.

From 16 to 19 October 2025, Sheffield’s iconic Ponds Forge International Sports Centre will become the epicentre of martial arts excellence. Athletes from all corners of the world will gather to compete in Kickboxing, Muay Thai, Kata, Points Fighting, Combat Boxing, Mat Sports, and Light Contact. Months of intense preparation, international coordination, and shared dedication have brought us to this defining moment.

But this year’s event is about more than just medals.

It also marks the official release of The Legacy — the WKA’s first-ever publication, written to honour the stories, struggles, and triumphs that shaped us.

On 18 October 2025, I’ll be hosting a special book signing at the venue, joined by WKA World President Dave Sawyer, as we reflect on the path that brought the WKA to global prominence.

This is also a moment to look forward.

2026 marks the 50th anniversary of the WKA — five decades of empowering athletes, uniting cultures, and building a global family rooted in martial values. Sheffield 2025 will serve as a powerful prelude to our Golden Jubilee, setting the stage for a year of celebration, reflection, and renewed commitment to the future of martial arts.

A special thank you to FMA Magazine for dedicating a whole page to this event and the book launch. Your support amplifies our mission and enables us to share our story with martial artists worldwide.

The WKA is more than an organisation. It is a movement, a tradition, and a legacy — and this October, we write the next chapter together.

Be part of it.

—

Dr. Paul Martin (HonDSc)
Vice President, WKA World

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The Rise of Kickboxing and Karate

#11 A Legacy of Power and Discipline By Dr Paul Martin (HonDSc), WKA Vice President Joe Lewis ready for a Full Contact Kickboxing bout Martial arts have long been a symbol of discipline, self-improvement, and combat effectiveness. However, the turbulent 1960s gave birth to a revolutionary new sport— Kickboxing . By fusing the precise techniques of karate with the powerful strikes and footwork of Western boxing , this fast-paced, full-contact discipline captivated fighters and audiences alike. At the same time, karate , a martial art deeply rooted in Okinawan and Japanese tradition , was expanding across the world. Once a regional practice, karate became a global martial art , embraced by practitioners of all backgrounds. This article explores the rise of kickboxing and karate , their cultural impact, and how they continue to shape combat sports today. Kickboxing: The Birth of a New Combat Sport The Fusion of Karate, Muay Thai, and Boxing The 1960s and 1970s saw a surge in martia...

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#10 Breaking Barriers and Paving the Way By Dr Paul Martin (HonDSc), WKA Vice President The future looks promising for women in martial arts as awareness of gender equality continues to grow. With increased advocacy and support, kickboxing and karate can become more inclusive sports, providing greater opportunities for female athletes to excel. As more organizations, trainers, and sponsors recognize the value of female participation, the landscape of martial arts is evolving to embrace a more diverse and equitable future. In recent years, initiatives aimed at bridging the gender gap have gained momentum, leading to an increase in the number of women participating in professional and amateur martial arts. From increased visibility in major tournaments to the establishment of female-focused training programs, the push for inclusivity is stronger than ever. Women are not only competing but also excelling, demonstrating that skill, dedication, and resilience know no gender bound...

"The Legacy"

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