28 Jan Celebrating 50 Years of K-1 DUTCH Kickboxing in the Netherlands: A Look Back and Forward

 In 2025, the Netherlands will mark a significant milestone: half a century of K-1 Dutch kickboxing in the Netherlands!

What began with the passion and vision of three trailblazers—Jan Plas, Peter van den Hemel, and Jan van Looijen—has transformed into a sport celebrated worldwide, with the Netherlands standing out as a dominant force.

A Journey from Innovation to Global Recognition

The story of Dutch kickboxing / K-1 kickboxing began in 1975 when these three karate enthusiasts ventured to Japan to enhance their skills. Their journey was not without challenges, but it led them to Kenji Kurosaki and his innovative kickboxing techniques. Among these were the groundbreaking low-kick, which they brought back to the Netherlands. Their dedication and foresight laid the foundation for what we now recognise as the Dutch K-1 kickboxing style, characterised by its strength, precision, explosiveness and strategic approach.

The establishment of gyms like Mejiro gym and K-1 kickboxing / Thai Boxing gyms and the formation of the Dutch Kickboxing Association (N.K.B.B.) in 1979 propelled the sport’s rapid growth across the country. By the 1980s, Dutch fighters began to dominate the international scene, such as Ramon Dekkers, Ernesto Hoost, Peter Aerts and Rob Kaman.

The Ongoing Debate: Past vs. Present

As we celebrate 50 years of kickboxing, it’s important to reflect on the evolution of the sport. Former champions often share critiques of today’s fighters, echoing sentiments that “everything was better in the past.” Meanwhile, some current champions believe they are the pinnacle of the sport. Instead, let’s focus on what truly matters: the extraordinary legacy of Dutch kickboxing / K-1 kickboxing. It is well-known around the world and offers immense value to individuals.

Kickboxing: A Sport for All

While renowned for its elite athletes, Dutch K-1 kickboxing also holds immense significance for many in their everyday lives, empowering individuals from diverse backgrounds. It fosters self-confidence, helps people conquer personal challenges, and promotes stronger, healthier lifestyles. Today, Dutch kickboxing is more accessible than ever, with the sport available in nearly every district and city worldwide.

The sport has gained tremendous popularity, offering programs for kids, youth, women, and seniors alike. The sport continues to expand, nurturing fresh talent. The blend of recreational and competitive kickboxing ensures the sport thrives and evolves.

A Promising Future Ahead

Even with the progress made, there is more work to do. Kickboxing continues to grow, not just within the Netherlands but also on an international scale, with the Dutch K-1 style serving as an inspiration for many around the globe.

As we commemorate this anniversary, we must recognise the uniqueness of Dutch K-1 kickboxing. Whether it’s the celebrated champions or the countless practitioners who benefit from it daily, K-1 kickboxing transcends mere sport; it brings joy, fulfilment, and contributes to personal development. It is a sport that connects, motivates, and encourages us to strive to improve ourselves.

Fifty years after kickboxing’s introduction in the Netherlands, we reflect on their achievements—from the initial low-kicks in the dojo, to world champions on grand stages, the likes of Remy Bonjasky, Rico Verhoeven, Nieky Holzken, Gokhan Saki and Badr Hari, all bred in the Netherlands, and from youth programs in community centres to training the next generation of champions. Dutch K-1 Kickboxing has enriched many lives and many other sports such as mixed martial arts, and organisations like UFC, Bellator, One Championship, PFL, M-1 Global, Cage Warriors amongst many more, and there is still so much more to discover.

Let’s celebrate this momentous anniversary by not only reminiscing about the past but also looking forward to the future. One thing remains certain: Dutch K-1 kickboxing is a source of immense pride!