Columbus, OH – March 1st – The Arnold Sports Festival once again proved why it is the world’s premier multi-sport and fitness expo, attracting over 200,000 attendees and featuring more than 20,000 athletes across 80+ sports and events. Founded by the legendary Arnold Schwarzenegger, the festival has grown into the largest event of its kind, bringing together elite competitors, fitness enthusiasts, and industry leaders from around the world. A staple of the festival, martial arts reached unprecedented levels this year with the inclusion of the WAKO “Nationals,” solidifying kickboxing’s expanding role on the global stage.
The World Association of Kickboxing Organizations (WAKO), the official governing body for amateur kickboxing worldwide, has been at the forefront of the movement to bring kickboxing to the Olympic Games. WAKO’s journey toward Olympic recognition took a major leap in 2021 when the International Olympic Committee (IOC) granted it full recognition, placing kickboxing among the most prestigious combat sports. This year’s WAKO Nationals, hosted in partnership with the Kumite Classic, was a defining moment, drawing over 1,000 entries and coaches to the Lausche Expo Center to compete in sport karate, kickboxing, kung fu, wushu, taekwondo, tang soo do, and LED saber competitions.
WAKO’s Impact on the Arnold Sports Festival
WAKO’s presence at the Arnold Sports Festival transformed the event into the most significant kickboxing showcase in the country. The merger between the Kumite Classic and the Arnold Sports Festival provided an ideal platform for WAKO’s National Championships and Team Trials, ensuring the highest level of competition and organization.
“The Kumite Classic has been semi-retired since 2017. Only a special opportunity like merging the Arnold and WAKO could entice me to resurrect our signature event. And it was worth it,” said Bill Viola Jr., WAKO Tatami Chairman for the United States and President of the Kumite Classic. “The addition of WAKO took things to another level.”
Elite Competition and Olympic Aspirations
This year’s event marked WAKO’s largest National Championship to date, paving the way for athletes to qualify for the Pan American Kickboxing Championships (August 27-31, 2025, in Punta Cana, Dominican Republic) and the Senior World Championships (November 22-29, 2025, in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates). Gold medalists from this tournament secured spots on the USA National Team, further advancing their path toward international and Olympic-level competition.
“WAKO is so professional with weight classes, and I really like that,” said Malichi Randalle, a first-time WAKO competitor who won the 12-14 Open Weight division. “The officials were certified and trained, and that made it fair.”
His father, Will Randalle, echoed the sentiment: “The Kumite Classic was a breath of fresh air. The attention to detail was outstanding, and the customer service was second to none. The production value made it feel like a world-class event.”
The Nationals also showcased the Black Belt Grand Championships (Open Weight) Title Belt Winners:
Industry Support and Global Recognition
With WAKO’s inclusion, this year’s event attracted top martial arts brands and sponsors. Century President Michael Dillard attended the event to recognize Team USA and award “All-American Patches” to junior team members who medaled in Budapest, Hungary. “We are proud to outfit Team USA for both the Pan Americans and World Championships,” Dillard stated. “I am excited for the upcoming WAKO Century Cups and for building a future with the league.”
Additionally, Maggie Messina, founder of SWERV, played a major role in supporting the event through initiatives like “Female Fighters Matter Too” (FFM2), an equality campaign ensuring that female competitors receive equal prizes in grand champion divisions. “The belts were top-shelf, and the big crowd made it exciting! Everything ran smoothly with professional, certified judges,” Messina noted.
Looking Ahead: The Future of WAKO Nationals and the Olympic Movement
As WAKO continues its push for Olympic inclusion, events like the Kumite Classic and WAKO USA Nationals serve as essential stepping stones in preparing athletes for international competition. The professionalism, organization, and high-level competition on display at the Arnold Sports Festival underscored WAKO’s legitimacy and global appeal.
“The Kumite Classic at the Arnold Sports Festival continues to grow in both talent and prestige,” said U.S. Army Head Coach Wesley Lawrence. “Adding WAKO has been a game-changer, ensuring the best competitors get the experience they need at the highest level.”
With kickboxing on the rise and WAKO leading the charge, the success of this year’s event is just the beginning. As WAKO builds momentum toward future Olympic Games, it remains dedicated to elevating combat sports and giving athletes the platform they deserve. Learn more about TATAMI.
Columbus, OH – March 1st – The Arnold Sports Festival once again proved why it is the world’s premier multi-sport and fitness expo, attracting over
