WAKO is fostering participation of persons with disabilities in para-kickboxing and promoting their inclusion in sport activities as a very important segment of their life, ensuring their inclusion in all aspects of society. An estimated 1.3 billion people experience significant disability. This represents 16% of the world’s population, or 1 in 6 of us. WAKO launched the first para-kickboxing demonstration back in 2016, when  five para-kickboxers aged 15–18 young para-kickboxers from Maribor presented their skills during the European Kickboxing Championships.  That same year, Tomaž Barada, kickboxing champion and member of the WAKO Board of Directors, organized an auction of his most significant kickboxing trophies to raise funds for continuing work with inclusive groups in his sports center. In the years that followed, the development continued with the creation of rules and the formal definition of the para-kickboxing discipline, which required a multidisciplinary approach and strong involvement from WAKO’s expert committees. Soon, a dedicated Para and Inclusive Committee was established, with Jesús Equía (ESP) elected as its Chair. In 2024, demonstrations of para-kickboxing were held during the European Championships in Athens, and later during the European Junior Championships in Italy. In the Pan American region—especially in Argentina, Venezuela, and Brazil—para-kickboxing has also been actively developed, with athletes performing within continental championships since 2023. This year, at the World Championships in Abu Dhabi, para-kickboxing competition in technique performance was held for the first time, where athletes were evaluated according to the rules and medals were awarded.

"On this World Kickboxing Day, November 30th, 2025, let us celebrate the strength and unity we've forged together. Thank you to every athlete, coach, president, official and supporter for your dedication and spirit. Together, we have built a vibrant community that transcends borders and inspires greatness in each other. Here’s to where we are and the incredible journey ahead!" WAKO President - Mr. Roy Baker #onewako #onechampion

Women in Sport Committee Meeting Abu Dhabi, November 25, 2025 Athlete Corner • Updates from athletes on current projects and achievements • Discussion of challenges faced and support needed • Sharing best practices and inspirational stories Next Activities • Planning upcoming initiatives and events • Coordination with partners and stakeholders 8 March activities • Proposals: New ideas for celebrating the day • Awards: Recognition of outstanding contributions in women’s sport • Interviews: Media engagement with athletes and committee members • Celebration: Activities to highlight the day Regular Engagement • Two interviews scheduled every month with athletes, coaches, or leaders in sport • Aim: Increase visibility and promote women’s participation New technologiem Workshops • Upcoming workshop focused on AI applications in sport • Topics: Data analysis, performance tracking, and innovation in women’s sport • Opportunity for collaboration and knowledge.

Explore the dynamic world of kickboxing, blending traditional martial arts with modern athleticism. Learn about WAKO’s seven competitive disciplines. Why We Stand Out Kickboxing is not just another combat sport—it’s a dynamic blend of traditional martial arts and modern athleticism. What sets kickboxing apart is its unique Western adaptation of Eastern martial arts, creating a sport that caters to everyone, whether you’re aiming for high-level competition or simply looking to boost your fitness. At its core, kickboxing is designed to improve your health, strength, and endurance, offering both physical and mental challenges. WAKO kickboxing takes this even further, with a diverse range of seven competitive disciplines that test a wide variety of skills. We offer three ring disciplines and four tatami disciplines, each with its own unique flavor and set of rules: Ring Disciplines: Full Contact, Low Kick, K-1 Rules In our ring disciplines, bouts take place in a boxing ring, where kickboxers engage in three intense rounds, each lasting two minutes, with a minute to regroup between rounds. The goal is simple: to outmatch your opponent using legal techniques delivered with full power and precision. This is where strategy, strength, and skill come together to create the ultimate test of endurance and combat ability. Tatami Disciplines: Point fighting, Light contact, Kick light and Musical forms (with and without weapons) In our ring disciplines, bouts take place in a boxing ring, where kickboxers engage in three intense rounds, each lasting two minutes, with a minute to regroup between rounds. The goal is simple: to outmatch your opponent using legal techniques delivered with full power and precision. This is where strategy, strength, and skill come together to create the ultimate test of endurance and combat ability. Global Reach and Influence Today, WAKO is a truly global organization, representing 135 affiliated nations across five continents. Of these, 106 countries are officially recognized by their respective National Olympic Committees or Government Sports Authorities. With over 4 million practitioners training in more than 40,000 clubs worldwide, WAKO has grown into a powerhouse of kickboxing, promoting biennial Continental and World Championships, along with numerous World and Continental Cups and Open Tournaments. Official Recognitions: A Testament to Excellence WAKO has earned widespread recognition from prestigious sports bodies around the world. Some of its notable affiliations include: IOC (International Olympic Committee) – Officially recognized since November 30th, 2018. GAISF (Global Association of International Sports Federations) – Formerly known as SportAccord. IWGA (International World Games Association). ARISF (Association of IOC Recognized International Sports Federations). FISU (International University Sports Federation). WADA (World Anti-Doping Agency). CIFP (International Fair Play Organization). OCA (Olympic Council of Asia). IWG (International Working Group of Women in Sport). Peace and Sport. Milestones in WAKO’s Olympic Journey A defining moment in WAKO's history came on November 30th, 2018, when kickboxing was granted provisional recognition by the IOC in Tokyo, Japan. This was the culmination of a journey that began in 2016 when WAKO applied for recognition as an IOC sport. The recognition was solidified on July 20th, 2021, when the 138th IOC Session in Tokyo granted WAKO full recognition, underlining its commitment to promoting and upholding the values of the Olympic movement. WAKO's continued growth and alignment with Olympic principles led to its shortlisting for the 2028 Olympic Games in Los Angeles and confirmed participation in the 2023 European Olympic Games in Krakow. Key Achievements and Partnerships WAKO’s path to global recognition has been marked by several key milestones: 2005: Adoption of WADA anti-doping code. 2006: Merger with IAKSA and GAISF recognition. 2007: WAKO Asia becomes a member of the OCA. 2012: Initiated membership with AIMS. 2014: Joined IWGA. 2016: Partnership with Fair Play and Peace and Sport. 2017: FISU recognition and partnerships with the International Working Group on Women in Sport and FICS. 2018: IOC provisional recognition. 2019: ARISF recognition. 2021: Full IOC recognition and confirmation of participation in the 2023 European Olympic Games in Krakow. WAKO continues to evolve, aligning its growth with the Olympic Movement, integrating its values and principles into every facet of the organization’s policies and activities. As the world governing body for kickboxing, WAKO stands at the forefront of the sport, ensuring its development, integrity, and international success.

Explore WAKO’s Media Hub for the latest kickboxing videos, photos, and articles. Stay connected with highlights from events and stories worldwide. Visit our Official Youtube Channel for more PHOTOS Visit our Official Flickr Channel for more Social Links Social Links world games 2025 winners

Explore remote and global career opportunities with WAKO, the IOC-recognized kickboxing federation. Join us in shaping the future of combat sports worldwide. Jobs vacancies Part-Time Office and Marketing Administrator (Remote) – Brand Support & Development** **Role Profile: Part-Time Office and Marketing Administrator (Remote) – Brand Support & Development** Position Title: Office and Marketing Administrator (Part-Time, 2-3 days/week) Location: Remote or hybrid Duration: 2-year Fixed Term Contract Reporting To: WAKO Office Manager - President of WAKO (World Association of Kickboxing Organizations) **Overview:** WAKO is a renowned global sport organization recognized by the IOC, dedicated to promoting and developing kickboxing worldwide. We are seeking a proactive, detail-oriented Office and marketing Administrator with a passion for brand development and support. This part-time role offers a unique opportunity for a graduate in Sports management, brand management or marketing to gain invaluable experience within a prestigious international IOC recognised global organization, contributing to our global growth and brand presence. **Main Responsibilities:** - Provide efficient administrative support remotely, ensuring smooth day-to-day operations. - Assist in brand support and development activities, including coordinating campaigns, managing mass communication, and supporting promotional initiatives. - Maintain and update contact databases using modern contact management software. ( Contact Manager ) - Draft, review, and proofread correspondence, reports, and promotional content in clear, professional English. - Manage Marketing and Brand schedules, meetings, and communication with internal teams and external stakeholders. - Support WAKO Media team, social media and digital branding efforts as required. Ensure collaboration and consolidation of activities - Track and report on branding projects, surveys and campaigns. - Ensure confidentiality and data protection standards are maintained at all times. **Key Requirements:** - Proven experience in using modern contact database software (COntact Manager - HubSpot, or similar). - Exceptional written and spoken English language skills; meticulous attention to detail. - Strong organizational and time-management skills, with the ability to work independently. - Familiarity with digital communication platforms, social media, and Brand, marketing concepts. - Demonstrated professionalism and adaptability in a remote work environment. - Adequate home-office setup with reliable internet connection. **Desirable Attributes:** - Recent graduate in brand management, marketing, communications, or Sports administration and related field. - Interest or experience within the sports industry, especially within international or Olympic-affiliated organizations. - interest and experience in the Combat sports industry Ability to support a dynamic, evolving brand development and marketing strategy on a global scale. **We Offer:** - A fair, Salary consummated with experience and role. - An engaging role within a prestigious global IOC recognised sports organization. - Flexible part-time working arrangements. That will ensure flexibility for you and your family. - Opportunity to gain experience and build a global network within the international sports community. - Supportive team environment with exposure to our Media team, brand and marketing functions at a high level. **Application Process:** Application period is open for fourteen days from 29th of May to the 12th June. Successfully applications will be contacted by return mail within 5 working days. Interested candidates should submit a CV and cover letter outlining their suitability for the role and motivation for working with WAKO to president@wako.sport