The climax of Episode 9 witnessed Miyagi-do triumphing over Cobra Kai, with Robby securing the victory by defeating Kwon in a thrilling final exchange. As Johnny bid an emotional farewell to Kreese, both ejected from the tournament, the looming specter of Silver's machinations still loomed large. Despite this, Johnny had done his due diligence, prompting Silver to surrender a letter to Daniel, unveiling the concealed chapter of Miyagi's past. The letter contained the Sekai Taikai records from Miyagi's competitive days, revealing a startling revelation: Miyagi had apparently fatally injured his adversary in the ring.
The narrative shifts to Episode 10 of Cobra Kai's sixth season, where Miyagi's climactic bout unfolds as a haunting vision. Daniel finds himself in the shoes of Miyagi's foe, only to end up imagining his mentor's demise at his hands. Awakening in a cold sweat, Daniel is left reeling from the stunning revelation, shaking the foundation of his faith in the man he revered as infallible. Chozen and Johnny, too, sense the ripple effects, yet the tournament's drama remains front and center, intertwined with unresolved interpersonal conflicts.
Among these unresolved issues are the tender moments shared between Robby and Zara, and the near-kiss interrupted on the sandy shores between Axel and Sam. Kwon reappears, confronting Robby mid-conversation with Tory, mocking his fortune in their last encounter. This rivalry, it seems, is far from extinguished.
Within Cobra Kai, tensions escalate, particularly directed towards Tory, as Kim struggles to maintain order. Kreese, meantime, harbors unfinished business with Silver. Tracking him down, Kreese clandestinely brandishes a knife, seeking an opportune moment to exact his revenge.
However, an urgent summons interrupts the turmoil, drawing all contestants to the main lobby for a bombshell announcement. The Sekai Taikai has uncovered a cheating scandal—the Russians, caught red-handed using performance-enhancing drugs. Consequently, Cobra Kai is granted a miraculous reprieve, back in contention.
The semi-final matchups have been decided, pitting Sam against Tory and Axel versus Robby, setting the stage potentially for a long-awaited rematch between Kwon and Robby in the grand finale. However, Tory's focus is wavering; she's hesitant to sacrifice everything merely for victory's sake. Despite this, Kim strives to rally her spirits.
Meanwhile, as Cobra Kai sharpens its skills, Miyagi-do finds itself in disarray—until Miguel steps in with an inspiring speech that rekindles the group's determination.
The semi-finals commence, with Kwon emerging victorious by an overwhelming margin. Zara also secures her win, paving the way for the highly anticipated showdown between Robby and Axel. Axel demonstrates formidable strength, forcing Robby to spit blood, while his impeccable defense grants him a commanding 5-0 lead. Yet, amidst the fierce competition, the Russian Sensei's unexpected return sends shockwaves through the dojo, sparking an all-out brawl.
Amid the turmoil, opportunities arise. Kreese spots Silver across the dojo and pursues him relentlessly. Elsewhere, Wolf engages in a fierce struggle with Johnny and Daniel on the mats, until Johnny, noticing Kreese's departure, decides to follow suit. Alas, in the commotion, Johnny drops his knife, only for it to be snatched up by an unseen hand.
On the mats, relationships are mended and feuds are resolved: Robbie and Tory reconcile, Sam and Tory's rivalry comes to an end, and Axel heroically saves Sam when she needs it most.
Throughout the fray, Silver and Kreese clash, with Silver gaining the upper hand. Just as it seems all hope is lost for Kreese, Johnny leaps into action to save him. The battle rages on, but ultimately, Johnny emerges victorious.
Tragically, amidst the upheaval, Kwon discovers the knife before anyone else. As he reaches for it, Daniel notices—but too late. Kwon stumbles and falls onto the very blade he sought, causing blood to seep out and bringing the fighting to an abrupt halt. Reality dawns on everyone: another life has been lost at the Sekai Taikai, this time Kwon's.