The Evolution of WKA Events: A Look Through the Years

From its groundbreaking beginnings in 1976 to its current global reach, the World Kickboxing Association (WKA) has played a defining role in shaping professional Karate and kickboxing into the sports we recognize today.

Founded by Howard Hanson and Arnold Urquidez, WKA emerged as one of the original sanctioning bodies in the golden age of full-contact Karate. It was the first to implement an independent fighter rating system (the STAR system), include Asian nations in world rankings, and introduce low kicks to professional rulesets—innovations that revolutionized the sport.

WKA events quickly gained traction worldwide. From Los Angeles to Tokyo's legendary Budokan, early matchups featured iconic names like Benny "The Jet" Urquidez, who became a national hero in Japan. These fights attracted record-setting gates and were broadcast live to millions, helping professional Karate earn mainstream appeal.

As years passed, WKA expanded across continents—adding women’s divisions, bringing professional bouts to Hong Kong, and syndicating over 50 television programs globally. Under the leadership of Paul Ingram and later David Sawyer, WKA evolved further, embracing amateur championships and solidifying its presence across Europe, Oceania, Asia, and Africa.

Today, WKA events continue to unite the global martial arts community, honoring decades of tradition while forging the future of combat sports.

From historic knockouts to international milestones, WKA has never just followed the evolution of martial arts—it has led it.