The ride that began in 2018 with Cobra Kai has now come to its conclusion. The show has ridden us through a rollercoaster of action, nostalgia, humor, and heart. With its final season, Cobra Kai provides a conclusion that made me scream with excitement, shed tears, and laugh—often at the same time. The final stretch demonstrates everything that made the show excellent while wrapping up loose ends in a manner that feels exciting and rewarding.
A Worth Fighting For
Since the time Johnny Lawrence revived Cobra Kai, the series gave viewers a journey they did not see coming but were thoroughly hooked on. While it began as a nostalgic revisit to The Karate Kid universe, it became one of the most discussed series in no time, combining cross-generational rivalries, individual redemption narratives, and martial arts battles that are high-octane in nature.
As Cobra Kai exits, it does so on its promise of exciting combat, rich character development, and a fulfilling finale. This last season isn’t about karate—it’s about closure, redemption, and the legacy of the people who’ve built the story.
Rating: (4.5/5)
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Show Title | Cobra Kai |
| Premiere Date | May 2, 2018 |
| Final Season Release | February 13, 2025 |
| Total Seasons | 6 |
| Available On | Netflix |
| Main Cast | William Zabka, Ralph Macchio |
| IMDb Rating | 8.7 (Final Season) |
| Rotten Tomatoes Score | 97% (Final Season) |
The Journey of Johnny and Daniel
Though Cobra Kai has traditionally split its attention between young combatants and their senseis, the last season goes all-in on Johnny Lawrence and Daniel LaRusso’s stories. The way they reconcile from sworn foes to trusted confidants is one of the series’ best arcs.
Johnny’s trajectory, in fact, is the highlight of the show. He begins as a male with issues of the past who is fighting inner demons and in need of redemption. We see him evolve through the series into a mentor, a father figure, and finally, into a man who finds his own way without losing himself in the process. William Zabka gives one of his finest performances, imbuing Johnny’s last moments on television with raw emotion.
Daniel LaRusso, in contrast, is forced to shed his black-and-white view of life. His struggle to maintain the legacy of Mr. Miyagi comes full circle in a stirring conclusion that serves to remind us that strength resides not in battle but in understanding.
The Defining Moments of the Next Generation
Though Johnny and Daniel are the main focus, the younger fighters also have their time to shine. The last season makes sure that all the main characters—Miguel, Sam, Hawk, Robby, and Tory—have a fulfilling conclusion. Their friendships, rivalries, and personal issues reach their climax, showing that karate is not just about fighting—it’s about identity, discipline, and development.
One of the peaks of the season is the Sekai Taikai Tournament, which is an international tournament that challenges all the fighters to their maximum. Not only does it crank up the stakes, but also provides every character with a chance to play out how far they’ve progressed.
A Bittersweet Farewell to The Valley
One of the strengths of Cobra Kai has been its deep connection to its setting. The San Fernando Valley has served as more than just a backdrop—it’s been a character in itself, representing the past, present, and future of karate’s legacy. As the show comes to a close, returning to The Valley one last time feels like a fitting farewell.
Villains and Redemption Arcs
Cobra Kai has always walked the thin line between hero and villain, and the last season is no different. Some characters receive their long-sought redemption, while others stay faithful to their villainous nature. Terry Silver’s destiny, in fact, is one of the hot topics, as his manipulation and callousness eventually come back to haunt him.
Kreese, another veteran villain, also gets a rich conclusion. His character development is one of the most compelling, with fans being split on whether he really does redeem himself or if he is ultimately still an evil person.
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A Finzel That Hits the Sweet Spot
The last season of Cobra Kai gives us an action-packed, emotionally resonant ending, and the show walks that fine line between high-intensity karate moves and introspective moments without losing its essence: the blend of humor, drama, and martial arts that made the show special.
Does it wrap up every loose thread? Not quite. Some of the subplots are a bit rushed, and some of the characters don’t receive as much closure as they should. But overall, the final season does the journey justice, so that fans will leave feeling content.
Final Ratings & Verdict
| Season | IMDb Rating | Rotten Tomatoes Score |
|---|---|---|
| Season 1 | 8.6 | 100% |
| Season 2 | 8.5 | 90% |
| Season 3 | 8.3 | 94% |
| Season 4 | 8.2 | 95% |
| Season 5 | 8.5 | 96% |
| Season 6 | 8.7 | 97% |
Final Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ (4.5/5)
Good & Bad
Good
- Thrilling tournament action
- Emotional character arcs
- A great mix of humor and drama
- Satisfying send-off
- Strong performances from Zabka & Macchio
Bad
- Some storylines feel rushed
- CGI Mr. Miyagi is unsettling
- A few characters get sidelined
- Some predictable moments
FAQs
1. What’s great about Cobra Kai?
It’s the capacity to balance nostalgia with new storytelling, humor, and emotional resonance.
2. Will there be any spin-offs?
Although Cobra Kai is done, Karate Kid: Legends will carry on the franchise.
3. Is this really the end of Cobra Kai?
For now, yes, but never say never in Hollywood!
4. How is Cobra Kai different from The Karate Kid films?
It builds on the characters while keeping the franchise’s underlying themes alive.
5. Where can I see Cobra Kai?
All seasons are on Netflix.