Dear Members, The Asian Kickboxing Confederation is pleased to inform you of the organization of Asian Open Cup 2026 with collaboration of the Kickboxing Federation of the Kyrgyz Republic. Dates: 18-24 August 2026, including competition days Arrival: No later than 18-19 August 2026 Competition days, 20-23 August 2026 Departure: 24 August 2026 (participants may depart freely) Location: Bishkek, Kyrgyz Republic Promoted and Organized by: The Asian Kickboxing Confederation, in collaboration with the Kickboxing Federation of the Kyrgyz Republic. Ring Disciplines: Full Contact, Low Kick, K-1 Tatami Disciplines: Point Fighting, Light Contact, Kick Light, Musical Forms Divisions: Youth and Seniors You will soon receive the full information package for the Asian Open Cup 2026. For any additional information, please contact us at the following email addresses: info@wakoasia.com We look forward to welcoming you soon in Bishkek Best regards, Public Relation Department Asian Kickboxing Confederation (WAKO ASIA)

WAKO Chile is proud to welcome athletes, delegations, officials and national representatives to Chile for two major continental events in 2026: the Pan American Kickboxing Championship – Seniors & Masters and the South American Kickboxing Championship – Cadets & Juniors. Both championships will take place from August 12 to August 16, 2026, in Olmué, Valparaíso Region, Chile. This important gathering will bring together athletes from across the Americas, celebrating not only high-level competition, but also the values that define kickboxing: discipline, perseverance, respect, friendship and sportsmanship. A Message of Welcome It is with great joy that we welcome all athletes, delegations and authorities arriving in Chile for the Pan American Championship and the South American Championship. This is a special moment for sport across our continent, bringing together talent, cultures and the true spirit of perseverance that unites us all. We would like to recognize the important work of the presidents of each country represented at these championships. Their support, leadership and commitment to the development of kickboxing make the participation and growth of so many athletes possible. Institutional support is essential for events of this magnitude to be delivered with excellence. These championships carry even greater importance as they award points toward both the Pan American and World rankings, raising the level of competition and reinforcing the significance of every match, every performance and every achievement. At this event, we celebrate not only medals, but also dedication, discipline and the dream of going further. Special recognition must also be given to Pablo Acuña, President of WAKO Chile, whose leadership, dedication and organization have been essential in making this event a reality. His commitment to the sport is both admirable and inspiring. Chile is honoured to host this major international event. Visitors will have the opportunity to experience a country of unique beauty, breathtaking landscapes and a vibrant capital city in Santiago. Beyond the competition, delegations can enjoy Chile’s welcoming people, rich culture and outstanding cuisine, making this championship experience even more unforgettable. We wish everyone an excellent competition. May respect, friendship and sportsmanship prevail. Welcome to Chile, and may this event be a great success. Paulo ZorelloPresident Event Information Pan American Kickboxing Championship – Seniors & Masters Location: Olmué, Valparaíso Region, ChileDates: August 12–16, 2026Organizer: WAKO Chile – Federación Deportiva Nacional de Kickboxing WAKO Chile South American Kickboxing Championship – Cadets & Juniors Location: Olmué, Valparaíso Region, ChileDates: August 12–16, 2026Organizer: WAKO Chile – Federación Deportiva Nacional de Kickboxing WAKO Chile Visa Information If your country requires a visa to enter Chile, national federations must contact the Chilean embassy or consulate in their country directly. WAKO Chile will provide, upon request, an official notarized invitation letter to nations of the Americas to support the visa application process. To request an invitation letter, each national federation must contact WAKO Chile by email: presidencia@wakochile.cl Each national federation is responsible for contacting the relevant authorities and applying for visas in a timely manner. Regulations The championships will be conducted under WAKO IF rules, which can be consulted on the official WAKO website: https://wako.sport/ Event Organizer Contact WAKO Chile – Federación Deportiva Nacional de Kickboxing WAKO ChileEmail: presidencia@wakochile.cl

TO ALL WAKO MEMBERS PRESS RELEASE WAKO and ISF Sign Memorandum of Understanding to Strengthen Global School Sport Cooperation World Association of Kickboxing Organizations (WAKO) and International School Sport Federation (ISF) are proud to announce the signing of aMemorandum of Understanding (MoU) on 22 April 2026, marking the beginning of a new strategic partnership focused on the development of kickboxing within the international school sport movement. This agreement reflects the shared vision of both organizations to promote education through sport, strengthen youth participation, and create new opportunities for student-athletes worldwide. As an organization recognized by the International Olympic Committee, ISF is dedicated to organizing major international school sport events, including the Gymnasiades and worldwide school competitions, while promoting the educational values of sport. WAKO is the sport organization recognized by the International Olympic Committee and is the world governing body regulating, promoting, and developing kickboxing across all continents, with a strong commitment to youth engagement and sporting excellence. Through this Memorandum of Understanding, both parties have agreed to cooperate in several key areas: Supporting the organization of school sport events that include kickboxing Ensuring technically high-level competitions through WAKO expertise Appointing qualified referees and officials for kickboxing events Developing educational programs for young athletes Promoting integrity, fair play, and safeguarding in school sport Strengthening collaboration between the memberships of both organizations worldwide This partnership represents an important milestone for the continued growth of kickboxing among younger generations and further recognition of the sport within the international educational sports community. Both WAKO and ISF look forward to building a successful and long-lasting cooperation that will inspire youth around the world through sport, discipline, and shared values.

Discover WAKO’s rich history, from the first kickboxing fight in 1970 to becoming the global governing body for the sport. Learn how legends shaped the journey. The Story of WAKO WAKO's history is deeply intertwined with the evolution of kickboxing in the Western world. It all began in 1970 when the legendary Joe Lewis had what is now recognized as the first "kickboxing fight" against Greg Baines in the USA. This was a groundbreaking event—the first time boxing gloves were used, and the term "kickboxing" was mentioned. The sport gained further momentum in 1974 with the inaugural "World Championship in Full Contact" held in Los Angeles. Organized by pioneers Joe Lewis and Mike Anderson, it was a landmark moment for the sport. Kickboxing legends Bill Wallace, Jeff Smith, and Joe Lewis emerged as the first Full Contact World Champions. Building a strong and lasting world organization for kickboxing was a challenging task amidst the dynamic martial arts scene of the time. George Brueckner and Mike Anderson had the vision to create a global platform for the sport, leading to the formation of the "World All-Style Karate Organization," soon to be known as WAKO. WAKO's journey in Europe began in 1976, and the organization was officially founded in Berlin, Germany, on February 26th, 1977, by Mr. Georg Brueckner. The first-ever World Championships in semi and full-contact karate, as it was then called, took place in 1978, featuring 110 competitors from 18 countries. WAKO quickly established official rules and regulations, incorporating hand and leg techniques for amateur fights with a focus on safety. This marked the official adoption of the term "kickboxing," with WAKO positioning itself as the world’s authentic Kickboxing Federation. From 1984 to 2013, WAKO was led by Mr. Ennio Falsoni of Italy. Under his leadership, WAKO solidified its reputation as a respected international sports organization, hosting World Championships every two years across different continents. After decades of dedication, Mr. Falsoni now serves as WAKO’s Honorary President. For those interested in a deeper dive into WAKO's history, his book, "KICKBOXING: The Phenomenology of a SPORT," provides a comprehensive account. (To obtain a copy, contact WAKO HQ at administration@wako.sport or call +39 345 0135521.) Following an acting presidency from 2013 to 2015, Prof. Borislav Pelević of Serbia was elected WAKO President in November 2015 in Dublin, Ireland. Sadly, Prof. Pelević passed away in October 2018. The WAKO Board of Directors then appointed Mrs. Francesca Falsoni, Chairwoman of the WAKO Legal Committee, as Interim President in November 2018. Her leadership guided WAKO through an Extraordinary General Assembly, culminating in the election of Mr. Roy Baker of Ireland as WAKO President on February 2nd, 2019, in Milan, Italy. WAKO Kickboxing Today Kickboxing is a modern combat sport rooted in various traditional martial arts. As a distinct Western response to Eastern martial arts, kickboxing can be practiced both competitively and recreationally, promoting health, strength, and endurance. Today, WAKO proudly represents 130 affiliated nations across five continents, with 105 of these nations officially recognized by their National Olympic Committees or relevant government sports authorities.

Meet WAKO’s Athletes’ Committee, dedicated to representing the voice of athletes, promoting their well-being, and driving positive change in kickboxing. Athletes’ Committee WAKO’s mission is to place the Athletes at the heart of the Sport of Kickboxing. We are the Athletes’ Committee (WAKO AC) that serves as a link between the most important unit of the organization, the Athletes and WAKO. We make sure that the Kickboxers’ voices are heard and taking into proper consideration. Our motto is “ATHLETES FIRST” as without the athletes, there would be no need for sports organizations at all. Our mission is to – Support and protect clean and fair sport – Empower and ensure Athlete representation in the WAKO decision-making processes – Support Athlete development in their sporting and non-sporting careers (Dual Career) – Provide advices to the WAKO Board of Directors and maintain close cooperation with the WAKO Committees – Ensure direct communication between the Athletes and WAKO – Maintain a link with the IOC Athletes’ Commission – Engage in relevant athlete-related projects If you are an Athlete, you can directly contact your country’s WAKO National Federation for more information on the national athletes’ committee or feel free to contact us for general guidance regarding athlete related issues on athletescommittee@wako.sport #HearYourVoice #WAKOkickboxing #WAKOAC #ATHLETESFIRST Useful links Athlete365 Discover the official community for elite Athletes and Olympians & download the APP IOC Athletes’ Commission WADA Discover the website of the World Ani-Doping Agency & download the APP WAKO Committees Check out the Members of the WAKO AC WAKO Rules Including the WAKO Anti Doping Rules & Equipment Book WAKO Policies Including the WAKO Guidelines Athletes Committee Events Calendar Check out the upcoming and past events of WAKO WAKO Ranking

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.