Bogotá, Colombia – A groundbreaking development in the world of Taekwondo was unveiled this Tuesday, November 28, marking a historic turn for Taekwondo enthusiasts and athletes worldwide. Kombat Taekwondo, in a strategic collaboration with ESPN, is set to change the face of Taekwondo, elevating its public perception and reach.
The Bogotá, Colombia was the birthplace of this new era, where Kombat Taekwondo and ESPN agreed to a game-changing deal. This partnership involves live broadcasting of Kombat Taekwondo events through ESPN network. Additionally, an unprecedented documentary series on Taekwondo will be produced for STAR+, a leading livestreaming platform by Disney.
Kombat Taekwondo’s vision, paired with ESPN’s broadcasting prowess, aims to amplify the Taekwondo exposure and recognition significantly. This alliance serves as a milestone in Kombat Taekwondo’s journey towards professionalizing Taekwondo on a global scale. It opens doors to attracting new talent and ensuring the continued success of the project.
Rick Shin, President of Kombat Taekwondo, expressed his enthusiasm: “We witnessed a historic moment in the world of Taekwondo that will fundamentally alter its perception. Bringing Taekwondo to ESPN, a dream now realized, elevates our beloved art to an unprecedented level. This vision, now a reality, reflects the courage and ambition of those involved.”
Rick W. Shin momentos después de firmar el contrato entre Kombat Taekwondo y ESPN. Fotografía: Claudio Aranda / MASTKD
In a recent development, the first two fighters for Kombat Taekwondo 001, Rafaela Araujo from Portugal and Niyaz Pulatov from Uzbekistan, arrived in Bogotá. This event promises to showcase 16 world-class fighters in a spectacular display of martial arts, including punches, kicks, and ground fights.
Rick Shin adds, “What we are achieving is historic for Taekwondo. We’re not just hosting a tournament; we are presenting a true martial arts spectacle. These athletes represent the pinnacle of professional Taekwondo, and we are excited to bring this to fans worldwide.”
Kombat Taekwondo’s initiative with ESPN is more than just a partnership; it’s a revolution in the Taekwondo world, promising to bring Taekwondo to new heights and a broader audience.
CEO and President of Kombat Taekwondo, George Hristescu and Rick Shin respectively.
On her part, Portuguese Rafaela Araujo said upon her arrival to Colombia that ‘this (Kombat Taekwondo) was what Taekwondo needed.’ (See interview)
“I still can’t believe that we are part of this,” said the Portuguese upon her arrival at El Dorado International Airport, who continued: “This is the beginning of something that for sure will explode and we will always know that we were the first.”
The arrival for the bulk of competitors is scheduled for this Thursday, who will begin adaptation into Bogotá’s 2,600 meters above sea level.
Kombat Taekwondo will have the first evening on its history at the Royal Center in Bogotá next Sunday, December 3 at 6:00 p.m.
