28 Years Ago A Partnership That Changed Everything
WKN: Creating Sports History Since 1994
We must never forget our roots and the unique, defining moments that shaped our legacy.
Flashback to 1998: When WKN Met Don King
In 1998, the World Kickboxing Network made history as the first and only kickboxing federation ever to collaborate with Don King Promotions, the world’s most influential boxing organization at that time.
Don King, the iconic boxing promoter behind nearly 90% of the world’s major fights, transformed the sport and created countless legends. His name remains synonymous with excellence, innovation, and global sporting impact.
The Historic Event
Date: September 19, 1998
Venue: Georgia Dome, Atlanta, USA
Attendance: 67,000 spectators
Broadcast: Live on ESPN
On this remarkable occasion, WKN joined forces with Don King to present a kickboxing world championship alongside several major boxing title fights, marking a milestone in combat sports history.
WKN World Championship Bout
Jérôme Le Banner (Team Courrèges 🇫🇷 )
vs.
Espedito Da Silva (Team Batarelli 🇧🇷 )
Officials:
• WKN World President / Supervisor: Stéphane Cabrera 🇫🇷
• International WKN Referee: Billy Murray 🇬🇧
• International WKN Judge: Sylvain Meynadier 🇫🇷
Featured Boxing Championships
• IBF & WBA World Titles: Evander Holyfield vs. Vaughn Bean
• WBO World Title: Jorge Eliecer Julio vs. Adonis Cruz
• IBF World Championship: Robert Allen vs. Abdulha Ramadan
Boxing legends such as John Ruiz and Christin Martin also competed in this historic event, uniting two worlds under one roof.
A Legacy That Endures
This extraordinary night cemented the World Kickboxing Network as a true pioneer in global combat sports, standing alongside the greatest names in boxing history.
Simply the Best. Always.
Video📹
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