best episodes of Cobra Kai poster

This Karate Kid sequel series picks up 30 years after the events of the 1984 All Valley Karate Tournament and finds Johnny Lawrence on the hunt for redemption by reopening the infamous Cobra Kai karate dojo. This reignites his old rivalry with the successful Daniel LaRusso, who has been working to maintain the balance in his life without mentor Mr. Miyagi.

6 Seasons
65 Episodes
Ended
Action & Adventure Drama Comedy
Cast & Characters
episode image Ex-Degenerate
9.6/10 (5308 votes)

#1 Ex-Degenerate

S6:E15
Feb 13, 2025

Fierce rivalries. Fresh opportunities. Daniel and Johnny find themselves back where it all began — and the stakes have never been higher.

episode image No Mercy
9.4/10 (8024 votes)

#2 No Mercy

S2:E10
Apr 24, 2019

It’s the first day of school at West Valley High but tensions between the two dojos have not cooled with the end of summer. And the rivalry between Daniel and Johnny comes to a head.

episode image December 19
9.4/10 (7641 votes)

#3 December 19

S3:E10
Jan 1, 2021

Old wounds begin to heal at a country club holiday party, but a brutal assault by Kreese's students leads to new betrayals and alliances.

episode image Strike Last
9.4/10 (4297 votes)

#4 Strike Last

S6:E14
Feb 13, 2025

The action heats up as the Valley's top fighters pit their courage against their rivals' speed and strength. But one last surprise changes everything.

episode image The Rise
9.3/10 (5599 votes)

#5 The Rise

S4:E10
Dec 31, 2021

The tournament comes to a shocking end, with the aftermath leaving its participants reeling – and two champions facing uncertain futures.

episode image Head of the Snake
9.3/10 (5726 votes)

#6 Head of the Snake

S5:E10
Sep 9, 2022

A fight night erupts in the Valley as Johnny, Daniel, Chozen and their students summon all their skills and strength to expose Terry and take him down.

episode image Mercy
9.1/10 (6369 votes)

#7 Mercy

S1:E10
May 2, 2018

The highly-anticipated All Valley Karate Tournament brings Johnny and Daniel on opposite sides again, except this time, the new generation of karate students are the combatants. Who will pay the price for ultimate victory?

episode image Miyagi-Do
9.1/10 (5426 votes)

#8 Miyagi-Do

S3:E5
Jan 1, 2021

In Okinawa, Daniel spends time with an old friend — and an old enemy, who has much to teach him. The dueling dojos' rivalry comes to a nasty head.

episode image Skeletons
9.1/10 (3837 votes)

#9 Skeletons

S6:E13
Feb 13, 2025

As the moment of truth arrives, Daniel and Johnny confront their pasts. Then it's fight time as Robby battles Axel in the world karate championship.

episode image The Fall
8.9/10 (4249 votes)

#10 The Fall

S4:E9
Dec 31, 2021

The annual All Valley Karate Tournament kicks off as several competing dojos vie for the grand championship – and settle some personal scores.

episode image Counterbalance
8.8/10 (5711 votes)

#11 Counterbalance

S1:E5
May 2, 2018

Daniel tries to strike a shady deal to undermine Johnny’s dojo. Meanwhile, Johnny expands his enrollment ranks in the dojo. Miguel puts his karate practice into reality as Samantha faces rejection in school.

episode image Different But Same
8.8/10 (5333 votes)

#12 Different But Same

S1:E9
May 2, 2018

Despite Johnny’s efforts to move forward, he confronts Daniel about the assault on his property. An attempt to appease Johnny makes them revisit the past together. Miguel senses Samantha is lying to him. The dojo students try to intimidate the popular kids at a party.

episode image Eunjangdo
8.8/10 (4297 votes)

#13 Eunjangdo

S6:E10
Nov 15, 2024

Daniel and Johnny use historic Barcelona as a training ground for their captains. But a cheap shot in the semifinals sparks a brawl to end all brawls.

episode image Take a Right
8.7/10 (5060 votes)

#14 Take a Right

S2:E6
Apr 24, 2019

Daniel’s students are given a lesson in overcoming their grudges. Johnny spends some time away from the dojo, while Kreese exerts his influence.

episode image Pulpo
8.7/10 (4719 votes)

#15 Pulpo

S2:E9
Apr 24, 2019

Johnny cautiously takes a stab at love, while Daniel and Amanda enjoy a romantic date night. An attempt to bring the students of the two dojos together backfires as hostilities between the teens escalate.

episode image Feel the Night
8.7/10 (4751 votes)

#16 Feel the Night

S3:E9
Jan 1, 2021

It's Christmastime in the Valley, and romance is in the air. Daniel and Miguel find unexpected common ground, and the Cobra Kai recruits go on a mission.

episode image Extreme Measures
8.7/10 (3703 votes)

#17 Extreme Measures

S5:E5
Sep 9, 2022

Daniel leans on a friend – and frenemy. Tensions come to a head for Miguel and Robby. A familiar face returns.

episode image Blood In Blood Out
8.7/10 (3039 votes)

#18 Blood In Blood Out

S6:E9
Nov 15, 2024

Who will move to the next round in the tournament's tag team elimination match: Miyagi-Do or Cobra Kai? A shocking revelation shatters Daniel's world.

episode image Ace Degenerate
8.5/10 (7032 votes)

#19 Ace Degenerate

S1:E1
May 2, 2018

Thirty years after the events of the 1984 All Valley Karate Tournament, Johnny Lawrence’s life has taken a rocky turn as he tries to forget a past that constantly haunts him. He seeks redemption by reopening the infamous Cobra Kai karate dojo. But the LaRusso-Lawrence rivalry of yesteryear is reignited when their lives become intertwined with the next generation of “karate kids.”

episode image All Valley
8.5/10 (5147 votes)

#20 All Valley

S1:E7
May 2, 2018

Daniel takes on teaching his new pupil using the unconventional techniques from Mr. Miyagi. Robby is tempted to return to his delinquent ways. Johnny helps Miguel with his first date.

episode image All In
8.5/10 (4593 votes)

#21 All In

S2:E5
Apr 24, 2019

Daniel struggles to help a new student learn. Miguel makes a new connection, while Johnny tries to repair a relationship. Tensions between the two dojos build to a breaking point.

episode image Match Point
8.5/10 (3727 votes)

#22 Match Point

S4:E5
Dec 31, 2021

Johnny and Daniel's dojo — and their fragile alliance — teeter on the brink of collapse when they agree to a winner-takes-all sensei showdown.

episode image Taikai
8.5/10 (3330 votes)

#23 Taikai

S5:E8
Sep 9, 2022

A coveted spot in an elite international tournament ignites a fight between dojos. Tory’s loyalties are tested. Sam struggles to let Miguel go.

episode image Best of the Best
8.5/10 (3432 votes)

#24 Best of the Best

S6:E5
Jul 18, 2024

Miyagi-Do's top students square off to be team captains, but a devastating tragedy changes everything. Kreese reveals his final surprise.

episode image Molting
8.4/10 (5016 votes)

#25 Molting

S1:E8
May 2, 2018

Johnny prepares his Cobra Kai students for the next All Valley Karate Tournament and in turn, he is inspired to clean up his life. Daniel is still unaware of his new pupil’s background. But as events unfold, it seems nothing has changed between Daniel and Johnny in 30 years.

episode image The Right Path
8.4/10 (4643 votes)

#26 The Right Path

S3:E4
Jan 1, 2021

Following an important meeting in Japan, Daniel revisits Mr. Miyagi's hometown on Okinawa. Johnny attempts to reconnect with Robby.

episode image Quiver
8.3/10 (5131 votes)

#27 Quiver

S1:E6
May 2, 2018

Johnny’s dojo class attracts a group of misfits while his son Robby, who harbors ulterior motives, lands a new job. Samantha makes a new friend in science class. Daniel inspires interest in karate from an unlikely person.

episode image Fire and Ice
8.3/10 (4585 votes)

#28 Fire and Ice

S2:E3
Apr 24, 2019

Daniel pulls out all the stops in an effort to recruit new students to Miyagi Do. Johnny reflects on some of the major relationships in his life - and responds to Daniel’s promotional efforts with his own.

episode image King Cobra
8.3/10 (4336 votes)

#29 King Cobra

S3:E6
Jan 1, 2021

Miguel helps Johnny craft the perfect social media message. Kreese scouts new recruits while Daniel and Amanda try to shut down Cobra Kai.

episode image The Good, the Bad, and the Badass
8.3/10 (4348 votes)

#30 The Good, the Bad, and the Badass

S3:E8
Jan 1, 2021

Informed that this year's All Valley Karate Tournament is being canceled, the three competing sensei attend a city council meeting to save it.

episode image Ouroboros
8.3/10 (3389 votes)

#31 Ouroboros

S5:E6
Sep 9, 2022

Terry recruits an expert in the way of the fist. Daniel walks away from a fight, and Johnny and Chozen pick one. In prison, Kreese confronts old demons.

episode image Survivors
8.3/10 (3326 votes)

#32 Survivors

S5:E9
Sep 9, 2022

Tory pays a price for defiance. Stingray does battle with his conscience. A celebratory night on the town takes a turn for Johnny, Daniel and Chozen.

episode image Mercy (2)
8.2/10 (4817 votes)

#33 Mercy (2)

S2:E1
Apr 24, 2019

In the aftermath of Cobra Kai’s win at the Under 18 All Valley Karate Championships, Johnny questions his dojo’s philosophy and deals with a figure from his past. Daniel searches for the right way to respond to Cobra Kai’s dominance.

episode image Lull
8.2/10 (4418 votes)

#34 Lull

S2:E7
Apr 24, 2019

To prepare his students, Daniel gives some new training methods a shot. Miguel puts a new lesson into practice. Johnny makes a tough but pivotal decision that affects Cobra Kai.

episode image Party Time
8.2/10 (3798 votes)

#35 Party Time

S4:E8
Dec 31, 2021

Miguel and Sam are excited about attending the junior prom until another couple unexpectedly shows up. Terry lures Johnny to a familiar location.

episode image Strike First
8.1/10 (5686 votes)

#36 Strike First

S1:E2
May 2, 2018

Present day Daniel LaRusso lives a charmed life. That is, until he sees that the Cobra Kai dojo, the source of his teenage angst and rivalry, has been reestablished by Johnny Lawrence. Struggling to launch the business, Johnny starts teaching karate to his teenage neighbor Miguel. Daniel faces his former opponent and old offenses are quickly reignited.

episode image Esqueleto
8.1/10 (5404 votes)

#37 Esqueleto

S1:E3
May 2, 2018

Johnny tries to recruit more students to join the dojo. Troubled by his daughter’s friends, Daniel chaperones her high school costume dance. Johnny takes Miguel’s training seriously and starts creating a badass.

episode image Cobra Kai Never Dies
8.1/10 (5304 votes)

#38 Cobra Kai Never Dies

S1:E4
May 2, 2018

When Daniel’s car dealership billboard is sprayed with lewd graffiti, it consumes Daniel and escalates tensions against a rival. Robby, Johnny’s delinquent son, is embarrassed about his father and his new dojo. The bullying escalates against Miguel and motivates Johnny in a surprising way.

episode image The Moment of Truth
8.1/10 (4476 votes)

#39 The Moment of Truth

S2:E4
Apr 24, 2019

Daniel makes another attempt to promote Miyagi Do, and receives guidance in a familiar form. Johnny grows suspicious about Kreese’s backstory. A new Cobra Kai student challenges Miguel and befriends Aisha, while Robby revisits a past he’d rather forget.

episode image Glory of Love
8.1/10 (4410 votes)

#40 Glory of Love

S2:E8
Apr 24, 2019

Daniel works to make amends with Amanda, while Johnny is introduced to the world of dating apps. Complications arise when Miguel, Samantha, Robby and Tory cross paths.

Cast & Chracters

character image Johnny Lawrence

Johnny Lawrence

Actor: William Zabka

Johnny Lawrence, portrayed by William Zabka, is a central character in the 'Cobra Kai' series. Originally introduced as the primary antagonist in 'The Karate Kid' (1984), Johnny was the top student of the Cobra Kai dojo and a two-time All Valley Karate Champion. Decades later, in 'Cobra Kai,' he is depicted as a down-on-his-luck handyman who reopens the Cobra Kai dojo to teach a new generation of students. Throughout the series, Johnny grapples with his past, seeks redemption, and strives to be a better father to his estranged son, Robby Keene. His character arc explores themes of personal growth, mentorship, and the complexities of rivalry and friendship with Daniel LaRusso.

character image Daniel LaRusso

Daniel LaRusso

Actor: Ralph Macchio

Daniel LaRusso, portrayed by Ralph Macchio, is the main protagonist of 'The Karate Kid' franchise and a central character in 'Cobra Kai.' In the original films, Daniel is a teenager who learns karate from Mr. Miyagi to defend himself against bullies, notably Johnny Lawrence. In 'Cobra Kai,' set decades later, Daniel is a successful car dealership owner, married to Amanda LaRusso, with two children, Samantha and Anthony. He reopens the Miyagi-Do dojo to counter the resurgence of Cobra Kai, aiming to pass on Mr. Miyagi's teachings. Daniel's journey in the series delves into his struggles to balance his personal life, business, and the rekindled rivalry with Johnny Lawrence.

character image Amanda LaRusso

Amanda LaRusso

Actor: Courtney Henggeler

Amanda LaRusso, portrayed by Courtney Henggeler, is the wife of Daniel LaRusso and co-owner of the LaRusso Auto Group. She is a pragmatic and supportive partner, often serving as a grounding influence for Daniel, especially during his conflicts with Johnny Lawrence and the challenges of running a dojo. Amanda is also a caring mother to their children, Samantha and Anthony, and plays a significant role in managing family dynamics and business affairs. Her character adds depth to the series by providing a perspective that balances the martial arts rivalries with real-world responsibilities.

character image Miguel Diaz

Miguel Diaz

Actor: Xolo Mariduena

Miguel Diaz, portrayed by Xolo Maridueña, is a pivotal character in 'Cobra Kai.' A high school student who becomes Johnny Lawrence's first student after the reopening of the Cobra Kai dojo, Miguel transforms from a shy and bullied teenager into a confident and skilled martial artist. His journey is marked by his relationships with Samantha LaRusso and Tory Nichols, as well as his complex dynamic with Johnny, who becomes a father figure to him. Miguel's character explores themes of mentorship, loyalty, and the moral ambiguities of the Cobra Kai philosophy.

character image Robby Keene

Robby Keene

Actor: Tanner Buchanan

Robby Keene, portrayed by Tanner Buchanan, is the estranged son of Johnny Lawrence. Initially depicted as a troubled youth involved in petty crimes, Robby's life takes a turn when he begins working at the LaRusso Auto Group and starts training under Daniel LaRusso at the Miyagi-Do dojo. His character is central to the series' exploration of redemption, father-son relationships, and the impact of mentorship. Robby's journey is complicated by his romantic involvement with Samantha LaRusso and his eventual association with the Cobra Kai dojo under John Kreese.

character image Samantha LaRusso

Samantha LaRusso

Actor: Mary Mouser

Samantha 'Sam' LaRusso, portrayed by Mary Mouser, is the daughter of Daniel and Amanda LaRusso. Having been trained in karate by her father from a young age, Sam is a skilled martial artist who becomes a central figure in the dojo rivalries. Her character navigates the challenges of teenage relationships, friendships, and the pressures of living up to her family's legacy. Sam's interactions with Miguel Diaz, Robby Keene, and Tory Nichols are pivotal to the series' exploration of loyalty, rivalry, and personal growth.

character image Tory Nichols

Tory Nichols

Actor: Peyton List

Tory Nichols, portrayed by Peyton List, is introduced in the second season of 'Cobra Kai' as a new student at the Cobra Kai dojo. Coming from a troubled background, Tory is a fierce and aggressive fighter who quickly rises to prominence within the dojo. Her character is marked by her intense rivalry with Samantha LaRusso, stemming from personal and romantic conflicts. Tory's journey delves into themes of resilience, survival, and the influence of mentorship, particularly under the guidance of John Kreese.

character image Eli 'Hawk' Moskowitz

Eli 'Hawk' Moskowitz

Actor: Jacob Bertrand

Eli 'Hawk' Moskowitz, portrayed by Jacob Bertrand, is a former bullied student who undergoes a significant transformation after joining the Cobra Kai dojo. Initially shy and self-conscious due to a cleft lip scar, Eli adopts the moniker 'Hawk,' styles his hair into a mohawk, and embraces a more aggressive persona. His character arc explores the allure and dangers of power, the impact of peer influence, and the struggle for identity. Hawk's journey includes shifting allegiances between Cobra Kai and Miyagi-Do, reflecting his internal conflict and desire for acceptance.

character image Demetri Alexopoulos

Demetri Alexopoulos

Actor: Gianni DeCenzo

Demetri Alexopoulos, portrayed by Gianni DeCenzo, is a close friend of Eli 'Hawk' Moskowitz and initially reluctant to engage in karate. However, after experiencing bullying and the changing dynamics of his friendship with Hawk, Demetri joins the Miyagi-Do dojo under Daniel LaRusso. His character provides comic relief and represents the perspective of someone skeptical about martial arts but who grows to appreciate its value. Demetri's development highlights themes of self-confidence, perseverance, and the importance of staying true to one's principles.

character image Kenny Payne

Kenny Payne

Actor: Dallas Dupree Young

Kenny Payne, portrayed by Dallas Dupree Young, is introduced in the fourth season of 'Cobra Kai' as a new student who joins the Cobra Kai dojo to learn self-defense against bullies. As the younger brother of Shawn Payne, Kenny's character explores the challenges of adolescence, bullying, and the influence of mentorship. Under the guidance of Robby Keene, Kenny's journey reflects the complexities of choosing between aggression and restraint, as well as the impact of dojo philosophies on young minds.

character image Carmen Diaz

Carmen Diaz

Actor: Vanessa Rubio

Carmen Diaz, portrayed by Vanessa Rubio, is the mother of Miguel Diaz. A hardworking and caring single mother, Carmen is supportive of Miguel's involvement in karate but is also concerned about the potential dangers associated with it. Her character adds depth to the series by highlighting the parental perspective on the martial arts rivalries and the well-being of the students involved. Carmen's relationship with Johnny Lawrence evolves over the series, adding layers to both characters' development.

character image John Kreese

John Kreese

Actor: Martin Kove

John Kreese, portrayed by Martin Kove, is the original sensei of the Cobra Kai dojo and serves as a primary antagonist in both 'The Karate Kid' films and the 'Cobra Kai' series. A Vietnam War veteran, Kreese is characterized by his ruthless 'no mercy' philosophy and manipulative tactics. His return in 'Cobra Kai' brings significant conflict, as he seeks to reclaim control over the dojo and spread his aggressive teachings. Kreese's character delves into themes of power, redemption, and the lasting impact of past traumas.

The highest rated episode of Cobra Kai is "Ex-Degenerate" (S6E15) with a rating of 9.60.

This episode received 5,308 votes.

It aired on February 13, 2025.


The lowest rated episode is "The Prize" (S6E2) with a rating of 7.20.

This episode received 3,018 votes.

It aired on July 18, 2024.

The highest rated episode is "Mercy" (S1E10) with a rating of 9.10.

This episode received 6,369 votes.

It aired on May 2, 2018.


The lowest rated episode is "Strike First" (S1E2) with a rating of 8.10.

This episode received 5,686 votes.

It aired on May 2, 2018.

The highest rated episode is "No Mercy" (S2E10) with a rating of 9.40.

This episode received 8,024 votes.

It aired on April 24, 2019.


The lowest rated episode is "Back in Black" (S2E2) with a rating of 8.00.

This episode received 4,623 votes.

It aired on April 24, 2019.

The highest rated episode is "December 19" (S3E10) with a rating of 9.40.

This episode received 7,641 votes.

It aired on January 1, 2021.


The lowest rated episode is "Now You're Gonna Pay" (S3E3) with a rating of 7.80.

This episode received 4,427 votes.

It aired on January 1, 2021.

The highest rated episode is "The Rise" (S4E10) with a rating of 9.30.

This episode received 5,599 votes.

It aired on December 31, 2021.


The lowest rated episode is "Kicks Get Chicks" (S4E6) with a rating of 7.80.

This episode received 3,590 votes.

It aired on December 31, 2021.

The highest rated episode is "Head of the Snake" (S5E10) with a rating of 9.30.

This episode received 5,726 votes.

It aired on September 9, 2022.


The lowest rated episode is "Downward Spiral" (S5E4) with a rating of 7.60.

This episode received 3,368 votes.

It aired on September 9, 2022.

The highest rated episode is "Ex-Degenerate" (S6E15) with a rating of 9.60.

This episode received 5,308 votes.

It aired on February 13, 2025.


The lowest rated episode is "The Prize" (S6E2) with a rating of 7.20.

This episode received 3,018 votes.

It aired on July 18, 2024.

Name Department Job
Alexis Frank Koczara Production Casting
Caleeb Pinkett Production Executive Producer
Christine Smith Shevchenko Production Casting
Hayden Schlossberg Production Executive Producer
James Lassiter Production Executive Producer
Jon Hurwitz Production Executive Producer
Josh Heald Production Executive Producer
Ralph Macchio Production Co-Executive Producer
Susan Ekins Production Executive Producer
Will Smith Production Executive Producer
William Zabka Production Co-Executive Producer
Leo Birenberg Sound Original Music Composer
Zach Robinson Sound Original Music Composer
Robert Mark Kamen Writing Characters

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