WKN’s Strong Connection with Professional Boxing Since the Beginning!
Since its inception, the World Kickboxing Network – WKN has maintained a strong and deeply rooted connection with professional boxing, the world’s leading and most prestigious combat sport.
From the early 1990s, the WKN achieved a historic milestone by securing its first major contract with legendary American promoter Don King 👑 — the most influential figure in boxing history, known for managing the careers and events of icons like Muhammad Ali, Mike Tyson, and Evander Holyfield. This landmark collaboration firmly established WKN as the only kickboxing federation in the world to have been officially linked with such a monumental figure in boxing.
* A Philosophy Inspired by Boxing Excellence
Recognizing that boxing is globally considered the most advanced and structured combat sport, the WKN has modeled its regulations, sanctioning system, and title governance closely on boxing standards. From title defense requirements to officiating protocols, WKN operations are inspired by the professionalism, fairness, and legacy of the noble art.
Many WKN officials come directly from the world of boxing, including the late Steve Smoger 🇺🇸 (RIP) — one of the most respected referees in boxing history — who was an integral part of the WKN family and contributed greatly to its integrity and global standing.
* Global Visibility and Professional Recognition
WKN remains the kickboxing organization that officially registers its fights on BoxRec®, the world’s #1 fight database and the definitive record-keeping authority for professional boxing. This guarantees that WKN athletes are recognized on the same level of transparency and legitimacy as professional boxers.
WKN has also brought kickboxing & Muay Thai to mainstream audiences through major television broadcasts, particularly on Eurosport, alongside elite boxing promotions. One of the standout projects was Biggers Better, a revolutionary series that combined professional boxing and WKN kickboxing in a single event — becoming one of the most-watched combat sports programs of its era across Europe.
*Bridging Two Worlds — Kickboxing and Boxing United
Through high-level partnerships, shared regulatory principles, and strategic media presence, WKN continues to bridge the gap between kickboxing and professional boxing. This unique positioning has made WKN not only a global leader in kickboxing but also a respected ally and partner within the boxing world.
By aligning itself with the values, structure, and legacy of boxing, WKN ensures that its athletes benefit from the highest standards of professionalism and recognition — firmly establishing itself as one of the most credible and visionary combat sports organizations worldwide.
