Ralph Macchio And Jackie Chan Join Forces To Revive Franchise

The last of the Karate Kid franchise will premiere this year; William Zabka’s Johnny Would Not Win features the new project. Fans have expressed their displeasure about this development, seeing that Johnny’s relationship with Daniel since the first installment was endearing to viewers.

Karate Kids: Legends unites characters from the original 1984’s Karate Kid and the 2010 remake. Ralph Macchio is back as Daniel LaRusso, while Jackie Chan reprises his character as Mr. Han. The much-anticipated movie is set three years after the Cobra Kai series, which Johnny was pivotal in.

Fans react to the details of ‘Karate Kids: Legends’

Fans think Karate Kids: Legend would be a mistake without Johnny and have taken to social media to share their thoughts. “Now all we need is:Dre, Cheng, Johnny Lawrence,” someone said, noting that some things were missing. “Johnny Lawrence, the real Karate Kid. Respect the legend, ok,” another added.

Some did not mind Johnny’s absence and were quite intrigued by the trailer. “I love that this means that the ‘Karate Kid’ remake from 2010 is part of the same universe as the other Karate Kid movies and Cobra Kai,” a third person gushed, while another thought combining kung fu and karate was a splendid idea.

Will Johnny’s absence make a dent in the plot of ‘Karate Kid: Legend?’

Johnny’s absence has left many disappointed, as his journey in Cobra Kai turned him from the antagonist into one of the franchise’s most beloved and relatable characters. With Mr. Han and Daniel LaRusso already sharing similar outlooks, Johnny’s rebellious approach to karate would have added an exciting twist to the story.

Though Johnny’s absence in Karate Kid: Legend is not necessarily a dealbreaker for eager viewers, they argue that a crossover should go all out in honoring the icon’s pivotal role. Karate Kid: Legend is scheduled to premiere in theaters on May 30, 2025.