The upcoming movie Karate Kid: Legends is aiming to connect different timelines of the Karate Kid universe, but it might miss a golden opportunity if it leaves out two important Cobra Kai characters. This film marks a big moment for fans—it brings back Jackie Chan’s Mr. Han from the 2010 reboot and Ralph Macchio’s Daniel LaRusso from the original trilogy. With these two legendary figures teaming up to train a new student, played by Ben Wang, expectations are high. But something feels off. The story takes place after Cobra Kai ended its successful six-season run on Netflix, yet only Daniel is making a return from that series. If the film really wants to honor the franchise’s journey, it needs to include Robby Keene and Tory Nichols.
Their presence could tie everything together. Right now, Karate Kid: Legends is set to introduce a new tournament and a fresh fighter. That’s exciting—but without any other familiar faces from the show, it feels like a missed opportunity. Especially when Robby and Tory had such powerful stories in Cobra Kai, stories that ended with them becoming global ambassadors for karate. The way their journeys wrapped up practically demands their return. They’ve become symbols of growth, struggle, and redemption—exactly what The Karate Kid has always stood for.
Robby and Tory didn’t have smooth paths. Their relationship, filled with ups and downs, finally matured in season six. Tory took a bold step by rejoining Johnny Lawrence and Daniel’s side to battle Cobra Kai at the world championship, the Sekai Taikai. She ended up defeating Zara and claiming the title. Robby fought bravely too, though he suffered a leg injury in his match against Axel. Despite the pain, both of them were selected for something much bigger—they were offered roles with Icon, a company pushing karate to a global audience.
Now, they’re not just fighters. They’re representatives of the art itself. And that’s why Karate Kid: Legends needs them. A major tournament in New York, with a fresh face like Li stepping into the arena, is the perfect stage for Robby and Tory to appear. They’re promoting karate around the world; it only makes sense they’d be present at a high-profile event like this. Their inclusion wouldn’t take the spotlight from the new protagonist—it would enhance it.
Robby and Tory represent the very heart of what The Karate Kid is all about. Robby was once angry and lost, disconnected from his father, Johnny. But thanks to Daniel, he found structure and direction through Miyagi-Do. Their bond grew, and by the end of the series, Robby had turned into a strong, respectful young man. Tory’s story was just as compelling. Her early years in Cobra Kai were filled with rage and misdirection, but she gradually discovered her own strength and purpose. She used her experiences, both good and bad, to evolve into a world-class fighter and a better version of herself.
That kind of development doesn’t come around often. And now, Karate Kid: Legends has the perfect chance to continue that narrative. Robby and Tory are not just great characters—they’re proof that karate is more than just kicking and punching. It’s about balance, discipline, and self-discovery. The new student, Li, is starting his journey now. Seeing others who have been in his shoes and risen above their challenges could inspire him in ways Daniel or Mr. Han alone can’t.
As of now, though, Robby and Tory aren’t on the cast list. Only Daniel and Mr. Han are officially returning from past entries in the franchise. That’s a surprise, especially considering how popular Cobra Kai has been. It brought in millions of fans, both old and new, and kept the Karate Kid flame alive for years. Leaving those characters behind feels like closing the door too soon.
Of course, there’s always the possibility of a surprise. Movie studios often keep cameos secret to avoid spoilers. Just because their names aren’t on paper doesn’t mean they won’t pop up unexpectedly. Still, the movie already had its premiere in Mexico City, and so far, there’s been no mention of Robby or Tory showing up. That’s disappointing for fans who hoped for a more complete reunion.
It’s clear Sony wants to focus on the future. Li is the new face of the franchise, and Karate Kid: Legends might be the beginning of another trilogy or series. That’s understandable. Every story needs to evolve. But that evolution shouldn’t come at the cost of forgetting what made it great in the first place. Cobra Kai introduced a new generation to the values of The Karate Kid. Robby and Tory were at the center of that wave. Including them in Legends would be a simple yet powerful way to pay respect to that legacy.
The decision to leave them out might make the movie feel disconnected. Viewers who loved Cobra Kai might feel like their loyalty to the story wasn’t rewarded. Worse, it could make Karate Kid: Legends feel like a standalone piece rather than a continuation of the larger story. That’s risky, especially when the audience has spent years watching these characters grow.
By appearing at the tournament—maybe even as guest trainers, mentors, or presenters—Robby and Tory could pass the torch to the next generation. Their presence would show that karate isn’t just moving forward with Li; it’s carrying the lessons of the past into the future. That message would resonate strongly, especially for longtime fans.
Think about it: Daniel and Mr. Han coming together is a dream moment. But imagine Robby offering Li a few tips before his big fight. Picture Tory standing ringside, reminding him to focus on inner balance, not just victory. That emotional connection would elevate the story and add depth without overshadowing Li’s journey.
Plus, it would be an honest reflection of where the story left off. Robby and Tory are already traveling the world for karate. It would be unnatural for them to miss an event like this. Their presence isn’t just fan service—it’s logical and necessary for storytelling continuity.
Right now, it’s uncertain whether Sony plans to bring back more Cobra Kai characters in the future. Maybe they’re saving them for a surprise or a spin-off. But if they’re serious about blending the old with the new, Karate Kid: Legends is the moment to do it. Waiting too long could break the connection fans feel.
This is especially important because Cobra Kai gave a voice to so many of the franchise’s core themes: forgiveness, growth, and unity. It wasn’t just a nostalgic trip—it brought something fresh to the table. By ignoring those characters now, the movie risks losing some of the emotional weight that made Cobra Kai special in the first place.
The keyword here is balance—just like Mr. Miyagi taught. Legends can move forward and introduce new faces like Li, but it also needs to honor the path that got it here. Robby and Tory are the bridge between eras. Their stories haven’t ended; they’re just entering a new chapter.
Even if it’s just a short appearance or a post-credits scene, including Robby and Tory would be a smart move. It wouldn’t just excite fans—it would prove that the creators understand the heart of the franchise. The Karate Kid isn’t just about one hero’s journey. It’s about how karate can shape lives, help people overcome pain, and build connections that last.
If Karate Kid: Legends truly wants to live up to its name, it should bring back the legends who’ve already proven their worth. Robby and Tory aren’t just leftover characters—they are part of the soul of Cobra Kai. And their presence could help guide the next generation, both on-screen and off.
