As a die-hard fan of both “The Karate Kid” movies and the “Cobra Kai” series, it feels bittersweet to see this story finally come to an end. 

Netflix released the final part of season six of “Cobra Kai” on Feb. 13, and all I feel is nostalgia. After seven years, the finale delivers the perfect balance of nostalgia, heart and action. It wraps up character arcs while giving the core cast a proper sendoff. 

From the very first episode, there were heartfelt explorations of redemption, growth and love that defined each character. Johnny Lawrence (William Zabka), who once was the “bad guy” of karate, became someone I rooted for. “Cobra Kai” gave him emotional depth and humor — as well as a redemption arc — in trying to reclaim his life and find a sense of purpose. Daniel LaRusso (Ralph Macchio) who spends much of the series re-examining his own biases and moral high ground, finally achieves a sense of peace and balance. The younger generation, Miguel (Xolo Maridueña), Sam (Mary Mouser), Robby (Tanner Buchanan) and Tory (Peyton List), added layers of complexity to the show, each struggling with their own battles. 

What started as a simple continuation of an old rivalry turned into something far more meaningful.

Season six delivered strong, action-packed fights that kept my eyes glued to the screen. The fight choreography intensified and was more contentious than in previous seasons. The stakes were higher, with each rivalry more intense then the last. 

I was thrilled when they showcased Miguel’s flashbacks of scenes from previous seasons, highlighting his journey of learning and growth through karate, leading up to the final fight. It was a moment of growth and resolution for the character.  

Despite the emotions, the pace felt rushed. With so many character arcs to wrap up, it felt as if the show was trying to tie up loose ends too quickly. My biggest issue was the introduction of new characters: Axel (Patrick Luwis), Zara (Rayna Valladingham) and Kwon (Brandon H. Lee), who aren’t given much of a background but are one of the main focuses on screen.

 At times, I felt the show became repetitive. Seasons one and two had strong storylines, solid plot development, and compelling villains. As the series progressed, the storyline began to feel less original. Even with the introduction of new characters, the freshness and originality of the earlier seasons started to fade, and it didn’t feel as captivating as the first two. However, the final season recaptured the love I had for this franchise.

The final moments reflect the show’s enduring theme that martial arts is about balance, respect and personal growth — not just fighting. 

“Cobra Kai” will always have my heart. It taught me to stop pleasing others and to go all in. This show ensured me that there will always be people cheering me on for everything I could accomplish. 

“Cobra Kai” never dies.