Cobra Kai and background fighters

In Cobra Kai, the enemy side often feels like it’s rolling on a one- or two-fighter budget. Think about it—each antagonist dojo has maybe one or two standout fighters with actual lines and skills (like Hawk or Miguel on the good side), while the rest of their squad is practically background noise. The other students are either nameless or, at best, cannon fodder, thrown in just to lose dramatically.

This setup hits especially hard during big arcs, like the Sekai Taikai. The idea of a global martial arts tournament builds so much hype—imagine elite fighters from every corner of the world. But when the villains’ side has only two people worth caring about, it makes the stakes feel… off. Why root for the heroes if they’re clearly outclassing 90% of their opposition?

It’s not just a problem of realism; it’s a narrative letdown. Great shows thrive on balanced rivalries, but Cobra Kai often leans on a lopsided structure where most of the enemy team exists just to lose quickly or look scared. For a tournament meant to be the pinnacle of karate excellence, it undermines the event’s prestige when so many competitors don’t feel like competitors at all.

It’s a missed opportunity. Imagine if each dojo, especially the antagonistic ones, had a deeper roster of well-developed and skilled fighters. The hype for every match, including the Sekai Taikai, would skyrocket. Until then, the excitement for these showdowns will always be dragged down by the overwhelming mediocrity of the enemy’s bench. Let me know if y’all agree