Warning: SPOILERS for Cobra Kai season 6, part 3, ahead.Johnny’s character arc inCobra Kaiperfectly explains why he doesn’t need to appear inKarate Kid: Legends.Cobra Kaiseason 6’s endingsays goodbye to an amazing and unique era, which saw theKarate Kidfranchise evolve into a new pop culture phenomenon. The iconic TV show starts and ends with Johnny Lawrence (William Zabka), now a beloved sensei that fans aren’t likely to ever forget. Being one ofCobra Kai’s best characters, Johnny’s resolution was long-discussed and nervously awaited, bringing worries about the creators doing right by him.
However,Cobra Kaiseason 6 part 3’s reviewsprove the Netflix show’s last episodes have exceeded expectations. Not only are the fights bigger than ever, but every character’s journey is emotionally and thematically resonant within the overall franchise. Johnny’s antihero arc may be the best one yet, and his epic alliance with Daniel LaRusso (Ralph Macchio) takes him one step further. Because of his epic ending, however, it’s clear thatJohnny isn’t fit to have a role inKarate Kid: Legends.
Johnny Lawrence Doesn’t Have To Return After His Perfect Cobra Kai Ending
Johnny’s Arc Doesn’t Really Align With The Karate Kid Lore
AsCobra Kai’s finale brings the show full circleby having Johnny overcome every one of his initial struggles, it makes less sense for him to return forKarate Kid: Legends. The Netflix show started with Zabka’s antihero, as he lived bitterly and angrily since losing the All-Valley tournament against Daniel in 1984’sThe Karate Kid,but found purpose in resurrecting Cobra Kai. Six seasons later, Johnny regains his confidence, mends his relationship with his abusive mentor, redeems his dojo’s philosophy, and embraces other karate styles.
Having Johnny inKarate Kid: Legendsjust doesn’t make thematic sense, since he represents redemption and offense, and the movies tend to explore opposite themes.
Considering Johnny’s character growth and his responsibilities at the end of the show, there doesn’t seem to be a narrative reason for him to join Daniel inKarate Kid: Legends. Additionally,The Karate Kidmovies' lore has always focused on underdogs inspired by Pat Morita’s Mr. Miyagi, which paves the way for Daniel’s return. Though Johnny’s relationship with Miyagi-Do isn’t bad, he relates more to the Cobra Kai way, which carries Kreese’s (Martin Kove) legacy instead. Having Johnny inKarate Kid: Legendsjust doesn’t make thematic sense, since he represents redemption and offense, and the movies tend to explore opposite themes.
Their Karate Partnership Suggests Johnny Will Cover For Daniel While He’s Away
Actor William Zabka as Johnny Lawrence in Cobra Kai.
The show gives a clear picture ofwhere Johnny will be duringKarate Kid: Legends, and it aligns perfectly with hisCobra Kaiarc. As both Kreese and Daniel help him realize he did something great and meaningful with his dojo,Johnny returns as a full-time sensei of offense. In a pleasant surprise,Cobra Kai’s ending sees Johnny and Daniel share students, as they accept that balance is important for success. After Johnny follows Miyagi-Do’s philosophy to win his fight against Sensei Wolf (Lewis Tan), he is ready to encourage his students to learn more than one discipline.
Ralph Macchio Shares His Reaction To Daniel & Johnny’s Surprising Ending In Cobra Kai Series Finale
Exclusive: Ralph Macchio reacts to Cobra Kai’s series finale, the evolution of Daniel LaRusso, and his relationship with Johnny Lawrence.
Assuming their partnership is still in place after three years,Johnny is perfectly set to take over Daniel’s defense lessons when the latter goes to New York inKarate Kid: Legends. Believing “aggression isn’t always the answer,” the Cobra Kai sensei’s approach to karate is flexible enough to allow him to teach Miyagi-Do if it’s needed. However, even if Daniel is not gone for long, Johnny’s focus remains on his family first. Notably, he will likely be busy enjoying time with his wife, his mother-in-law, and his young daughter.
Will William Zabka Ever Play Johnny Lawrence Again?
The Karate Kid Franchise’s Endless Character Possibilities Could Allow Johnny A New Character Arc
Though Johnny’s perfect arc inCobra Kaishows a promising future for the character, it also doesn’t easily open possibilities for his return.His victory against Sensei Wolf feels like a fitting goodbye, as Johnny has learned that winning or losing does not equal one’s worthand will teach and parent with that philosophy in mind. Additionally, he has no unfinished business with his mentor, as he is able to confront and forgive Kreese for the pain he caused him for decades.
Karate Kid: Legendswill be released on June 20, 2025.
However, ifCobra Kai’s long run confirms anything, it is thatThe Karate Kidfranchise brings endless possibilities and a committed audience that’s in for unexpected turns. Just like Daniel in the Netflix series, Johnny could get a fresh character arc in any of thespinoffs set up byCobra Kai. It would certainly be sad if William Zabka never returned, considering how beloved and essential his character has become. ThoughKarate Kid: Legendsmay still surprise fans by bringing back specificCobra Kaifighters, for now, all clues signal Johnny will not appear in future movies.
Cobra Kai
Cast
Cobra Kai is a sequel series continuing the narrative of the Karate Kid saga, set 30 years after the 1984 All Valley Karate Tournament. It focuses on Johnny Lawrence seeking redemption by reopening the Cobra Kai dojo, reigniting his rivalry with Daniel LaRusso, who strives to maintain balance in his life.
Karate Kid: Legends
Karate Kid: Legends is a sequel to Cobra Kai and The Karate Kid directed by Jonathan Entwistle. The film sees Ralph Macchio and Jackie Chan reprising their roles, continuing the legacy of martial arts mentorship and rivalry in a new era of challenges and apprentices.
