Knockdown Professional Kickboxing Ignites Nashville: A Historic Night of Elite Combat and High-Level Debuts

On April 11th, 2026, something special took place in Music City. It wasn’t the debut of a new country artist — it was the official debut of Knockdown Professional Kickboxing.

Led by Rob Zbilski, President of WAKO USA and head coach at Z Martial Arts Academy in Huntley, Illinois, the event delivered a memorable night of action. The card featured a balanced lineup of five amateur bouts and five professional contests, showcasing both rising prospects and experienced competitors. Notably, fighters such as Romeo Orosco made their professional debut, marking an important milestone in their careers.

Many of the athletes competing on the card had previously fought within the WAKO USA circuit and entered the evening looking to establish themselves on a larger stage in Nashville.

The event also highlighted personal moments that underscored the sport’s deeper meaning. Shane Tuohy, originally competing out of Ireland, brought international representation to the card, while WAKO USA coach David Bybee witnessed his son, Austin Bybee, earn his first victory within the Knockdown Professional Kickboxing organization — an especially proud moment for both father and coach.

In the main event, Jamon Cooke secured a hard-fought victory in an explosive bout against Romeo Orosco. Both fighters demonstrated high-level skill and determination, delivering a contest that reflected the competitive standard the promotion aims to establish. As they continue to develop, both Cooke and Orosco are names to watch within professional kickboxing.

Zbilski’s vision for Knockdown Professional Kickboxing is clear: to build a league rooted in structure, fairness, and opportunity, where athletes are given a legitimate platform to perform and grow. It is an ambitious undertaking and one that aligns with the broader evolution of combat sports in the United States.

Combat sports, once viewed with skepticism — particularly mixed martial arts — have steadily moved into the mainstream of American culture. Today, they stand alongside more traditional sports in both visibility and fan engagement, with audiences continuing to show increasing demand for high-level live events such as the one held in Nashville.

AN EXCITING KNOWNDOWN PROFESSIONAL KICKBOXING FIGHT

This is important as combat sports continue to evolve in the United States, highlighted by the UFC’s historic UFC Freedom 250 event, set to take place on June 14th, 2026, on the South Lawn of the White House in Washington, D.C., in celebration of the nation’s 250th anniversary.

Adding to the broadcast, UFC veteran and former Bellator and WEC competitor Shonie “Mr. International” Carter made his debut as a guest commentator. Known for his memorable spinning backfist knockout victory over Matt Serra, Carter brought energy, personality, and experience to the commentary team. He was joined by 6-time National Champion Meryl Swidler and commentary veteran Jeremy Johnson, forming a dynamic booth that enhanced the overall viewing experience.

COMMENTATORS JEREMY JOHNSON, MERYL SWIDLER, SHONIE “MR. INTERNATIONAL” CARTER

SHONIE “MR. INTERNATIONAL” WITH THE KNOCKDOWN PROFESSIONAL KICKBOXING RING GIRLS

Looking ahead, Knockdown Professional Kickboxing is scheduled to return on August 1st in Nashville, Tennessee, with plans for a rooftop venue that promises to deliver a unique and elevated atmosphere. If the debut event is any indication, the promotion is positioning itself to become a notable presence in the evolving landscape of American kickboxing.

Disclosure: The author was involved in media and promotional efforts for this event and represents Shonie Carter in a professional capacity.

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