TOP 5: The top kickboxing sanctioning body in the USA
The top kickboxing sanctioning body in the USA is the International Kickboxing Federation (IKF). Established in 1992, the IKF is recognized for promoting and regulating the sport of kickboxing at both amateur and professional levels. They organize events, establish rules and regulations, and rank fighters to ensure the sport’s integrity and growth. The IKF has been influential in developing kickboxing talent and promoting the sport nationwide.
The rating for each sanctioning body based on the criteria:
| Sanctioning Body | Date Established | First President | Best Fighters | Best Fighters’ Results | Best Events | Best Gyms | Rating |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| International Kickboxing Federation (IKF) | 1992 | Steve Fossum | Kevin Ross, Tiffany Van Soest | Kevin Ross: 50-14-0, Tiffany Van Soest: 21-6-2 | IKF World Classic, IKF Nationals | CSA Gym, The Yard Muay Thai | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (10) |
| World Kickboxing Association (WKA) | 1976 | Howard Hanson | Rick Roufus, Maurice Smith | Rick Roufus: 65-9-1, Maurice Smith: 53-13-4 | WKA World Championships, USA National Championships | Roufusport, American Top Team | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (9) |
| World Association of Kickboxing Organizations (WAKO USA) | 1977 | Georg Bruckner | Raymond Daniels, Jarrell Miller | Raymond Daniels: 35-3-0, Jarrell Miller: 23-2-0 | WAKO World Championships, WAKO Pan American Championships | Best Muay Thai, Sitan Gym | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (9) |
| United States Kickboxing Association (USKBA) | 1985 | Paul Rosner | Chris Algieri, Joe Schilling | Chris Algieri: 20-3-0, Joe Schilling: 23-9-0 | USKBA Nationals, USKBA World Championships | The Wat, Kings Combat Fitness | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (8) |
| Professional Kickboxing Federation (PKF) | 1996 | Dale Cook | Jean-Claude Leuyer, Carter Williams | Jean-Claude Leuyer: 30-10-2, Carter Williams: 20-6-2 | PKF World Championships, PKF National Tournaments | American Kickboxing Academy, Hard Knocks Gym | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (7) |
This rating is based on the size, number of events, national and international champions, image, and followers of each sanctioning body, with IKF leading as the top organization.
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History of the First 10 Kickboxing Sanctioning Bodies in the USA
1. International Kickboxing Federation (IKF)
Establishment and Growth
Founded in 1992 by Steve Fossum, the International Kickboxing Federation (IKF) has become one of the premier kickboxing organizations in the USA. With its roots in grassroots development, the IKF has been instrumental in promoting amateur and professional kickboxing across the nation.
Prominent Fighters and Events
Notable fighters such as Kevin Ross and Tiffany Van Soest have made their mark under the IKF banner. The organization hosts significant events like the IKF World Classic and IKF Nationals, which attract fighters and fans from around the world.
Influence on the Sport
The IKF’s stringent regulations and ranking system have helped maintain the sport’s integrity. Their efforts have ensured the growth and popularity of kickboxing, especially among enthusiasts in the USA and UK.
2. World Kickboxing Association (WKA)
Early Beginnings
The World Kickboxing Association (WKA) was established in 1976 by Howard Hanson. It is one of the oldest kickboxing sanctioning bodies, playing a pivotal role in shaping the sport in its early years.
Legendary Fighters
Rick Roufus and Maurice Smith are among the legendary fighters who competed under the WKA. These athletes have left an indelible mark on the sport, achieving remarkable success in various weight classes.
Prestigious Championships
WKA’s hallmark events, such as the WKA World Championships and USA National Championships, are highly regarded in the kickboxing community. These events have contributed to the global recognition of kickboxing as a competitive sport.
3. World Association of Kickboxing Organizations (WAKO USA)
Founding and Mission
Founded in 1977 by Georg Bruckner, WAKO USA is part of the global WAKO organization. It aims to develop kickboxing by organizing competitions and promoting the sport at both amateur and professional levels.
Top Fighters and Achievements
Fighters like Raymond Daniels and Jarrell Miller have showcased their talents in WAKO USA events. Their impressive fight records and championship wins highlight the organization’s commitment to excellence.
Key Events
WAKO USA is known for hosting major events such as the WAKO World Championships and WAKO Pan American Championships, drawing top talent and increasing the sport’s visibility internationally.
4. United States Kickboxing Association (USKBA)
Inception and Impact
The United States Kickboxing Association (USKBA) was established in 1985 by Paul Rosner. USKBA has played a crucial role in fostering the growth of kickboxing in the USA, offering a platform for both amateur and professional fighters.
Notable Fighters
Chris Algieri and Joe Schilling are among the prominent fighters associated with USKBA. Their careers have been marked by significant victories and contributions to the sport.
Major Tournaments
USKBA’s key events include the USKBA Nationals and USKBA World Championships, which have become staples in the kickboxing calendar, providing opportunities for fighters to compete at high levels.
5. Professional Kickboxing Federation (PKF)
Founding Vision
Dale Cook founded the Professional Kickboxing Federation (PKF) in 1996 with the vision of creating a reputable organization for professional kickboxing. PKF has since established itself as a respected body in the sport.
Star Fighters
Jean-Claude Leuyer and Carter Williams have been standout fighters in PKF events. Their performances have brought attention to the quality and competitiveness of PKF-sanctioned bouts.
Signature Events
The PKF World Championships and PKF National Tournaments are key events that highlight the federation’s commitment to promoting kickboxing. These tournaments attract top-tier talent and provide a platform for fighters to showcase their skills.
6. International Sport Karate Association (ISKA)
Evolution from Karate to Kickboxing
Originally focused on karate, the International Sport Karate Association (ISKA) expanded into kickboxing in 1986. This move allowed ISKA to tap into the growing popularity of kickboxing and contribute to its global growth.
Champions and Competitions
ISKA has produced champions like Bill Wallace and Michael Jai White. Its events, including the ISKA World Championships, have become crucial for fighters looking to make their mark in the sport.
Global Reach
With a presence in multiple countries, ISKA has played a significant role in the international development of kickboxing, making it a well-respected organization in both the USA and UK.
7. United States Muay Thai Association (USMTA)
Dedication to Muay Thai
Founded in 1998, the United States Muay Thai Association (USMTA) focuses specifically on the art of Muay Thai. The organization aims to promote and regulate Muay Thai kickboxing in the USA.
Prominent Practitioners
USMTA has seen fighters like Kevin Ross excel in Muay Thai. These athletes have contributed to the growing popularity and acceptance of Muay Thai as a competitive sport.
Important Events
USMTA events, such as the USMTA National Championships, provide a platform for Muay Thai practitioners to compete and showcase their skills, helping to elevate the sport’s profile.
8. American Kickboxing Federation (AKF)
Formation and Mission
The American Kickboxing Federation (AKF) was established in 1990 with the mission of promoting American-style kickboxing. AKF has focused on developing talent and providing competitive opportunities for fighters.
Leading Fighters
Notable fighters like Dennis Alexio have competed under the AKF, bringing attention to the federation’s quality of competition and its commitment to the sport.
Signature Tournaments
AKF’s notable events, such as the AKF National Championships, have been instrumental in promoting American kickboxing and providing a platform for fighters to shine.
9. North American Kickboxing Association (NAKA)
Establishment and Focus
Founded in 1995, the North American Kickboxing Association (NAKA) focuses on promoting kickboxing in North America. NAKA aims to provide a structured and competitive environment for fighters.
Successful Fighters
NAKA has seen fighters like Patrick Barry rise through its ranks, showcasing the talent and competitive spirit within the organization.
Key Events
NAKA’s major events, including the NAKA National Championships, attract top fighters from across the continent, contributing to the sport’s growth and popularity.
10. World Professional Kickboxing Association (WPKA)
Founding and Objectives
The World Professional Kickboxing Association (WPKA) was established in 2000 with the goal of promoting professional kickboxing globally. WPKA focuses on high-level competition and fighter development.
Distinguished Competitors
WPKA has produced notable fighters such as Stephen Thompson, who have achieved significant success and brought attention to the organization.
Premier Events
WPKA’s premier events, like the WPKA World Championships, are highly anticipated in the kickboxing community, offering a stage for elite fighters to compete and excel.
These organizations have played vital roles in the development and promotion of kickboxing in the USA and have contributed to the sport’s growing popularity among combat sports enthusiasts in both the USA and the UK.
IKF (International Kickboxing Federation)
The IKF, established in 1992 by Steve Fossum, is a prominent American kickboxing organization. It is recognized for regulating and promoting both amateur and professional kickboxing. The IKF hosts major events such as the IKF World Classic and IKF Nationals, which attract top fighters and fans from around the globe. Notable fighters under the IKF banner include Kevin Ross and Tiffany Van Soest.
WKA (World Kickboxing Association)
Founded in 1976 by Howard Hanson, the WKA is one of the oldest and most respected kickboxing sanctioning bodies. It is considered one of the largest organizations for both amateur and professional kickboxing. Despite its name, the World Kickboxing Association’s logo includes “World Karate and Kickboxing Association,” reflecting its roots in karate. Notable fighters like Rick Roufus and Maurice Smith have competed under the WKA, which hosts events such as the WKA World Championships and USA National Championships.
WAKO USA (World Association of Kickboxing Organizations USA)
WAKO USA is part of the global WAKO organization, founded in 1977 by Georg Bruckner. It is one of the largest and most prestigious organizations globally for amateur kickboxers. WAKO USA focuses on developing, supporting, and governing amateur kickboxing, but also sanctions professional champions. Prominent fighters like Raymond Daniels and Jarrell Miller have competed in WAKO USA events such as the WAKO World Championships and WAKO Pan American Championships.
USKBA (United States Kickboxing Association)
Established in 1985 by Paul Rosner, the USKBA has played a crucial role in fostering kickboxing in the USA. It offers a platform for both amateur and professional fighters to compete. Notable fighters like Chris Algieri and Joe Schilling have been associated with the USKBA, which hosts significant events like the USKBA Nationals and USKBA World Championships.
PKF (Professional Kickboxing Federation)
Founded in 1996 by Dale Cook, the PKF aims to create a reputable organization for professional kickboxing. It has established itself as a respected body in the sport. Prominent fighters such as Jean-Claude Leuyer and Carter Williams have competed in PKF events, including the PKF World Championships and PKF National Tournaments.
ISKA (International Sport Karate Association)
Originally focused on karate, the ISKA expanded into kickboxing in 1986. It is a massive organization regulating both sport karate and kickboxing matches. The ISKA has produced champions like Bill Wallace and Michael Jai White, and hosts significant events such as the ISKA World Championships.
USMTA (United States Muay Thai Association)
Founded in 1998, the USMTA is dedicated specifically to the art of Muay Thai. It aims to promote and regulate Muay Thai kickboxing in the USA. Fighters like Kevin Ross have excelled in USMTA events, such as the USMTA National Championships, helping to elevate the sport’s profile.
AKF (American Kickboxing Federation)
The AKF, established in 1990, focuses on promoting American-style kickboxing. It aims to develop talent and provide competitive opportunities for fighters. Notable fighters like Dennis Alexio have competed under the AKF, which hosts events like the AKF National Championships.
NAKA (North American Kickboxing Association)
Founded in 1995, NAKA focuses on promoting kickboxing in North America. It aims to provide a structured and competitive environment for fighters. Successful fighters like Patrick Barry have risen through NAKA’s ranks, with major events including the NAKA National Championships.
WPKA (World Professional Kickboxing Association)
Established in 2000, WPKA aims to promote professional kickboxing globally. It focuses on high-level competition and fighter development. Notable fighters such as Stephen Thompson have competed in WPKA events, including the WPKA World Championships.
These organizations have been instrumental in the development and promotion of kickboxing, providing platforms for fighters to compete and grow the sport both in the USA and internationally.
