Episode 13 of Season 6 of Cobra Kai finds us at the brink of the Sekai Taikai, with the Semi-Finals looming large and promising some fiery confrontations. The highly anticipated clash between Tory and Sam hangs in the balance, contingent upon Tory's decision to step into the ring, while Axel versus Robby emerges as another intriguing showdown.
The grand promotional rollout unveils the list of competitors, cleverly serving as both an exposition and a nostalgic recap of past glories. One thing stands out unequivocally: the Iron Dragons are the toast of the town, favorites to win it all.
Doubts persist about John Kreese and Cobra Kai's fate, but Kreese makes an appearance to visit Tory, seeking forgiveness for the Barcelona incident. He reveals that he has sanctioned her participation in the tournament alone, disbanding the rest of Cobra Kai in the process. Yoon is nowhere to be seen, and Kreese intends to bow out gracefully after achieving closure with Johnny.
Kreese offers a heartfelt apology to Johnny for his past failures, particularly highlighting the regretful moment he lost control after the game, choking Johnny in the parking lot. However, Johnny simply turns a blind eye and walks away.
As for Silver, we are stunned to learn that he has only six months left to live. But even in his twilight, he harbors a sinister plan to bring everyone down with him, confiding in Sensei Wolf about his恶意满满 intentions. Wolf, in turn, urges Axel to instill an unshakeable fear in Robby's heart.
Finally, the main event is upon us. Given the outcome of their previous encounter, the tension is palpable, and Robby's self-doubt begins to creep in. Chozen, Johnny, and Daniel rally around him, offering their unwavering support. Yet, Axel has a few surprises up his sleeve—a revamped stance, a renewed demeanor, and a ruthless streak, all courteous of Sensei Wolf.
Echoes of Rocky IV resonate through the scene, with Ivan Drago's shadow looming large, even amidst Johnny's assertion that Axel is no mere robot. Robby persists with his indomitable spirit, keeping the match hanging in the balance as it heads into its final round. Alas, fate intervenes when Axel inadvertently breaks Robby's leg in a tangled fall to the mat, the injury cleverly concealed amidst their tumultuous tumble. Granted a mere 15 minutes to remount the challenge or face automatic disqualification, Robby's prospects seem bleak.
Remarkably, Robby accepts his forfeiture with an unexpected grace, clinging to positivity as he embraces Johnny, calling him father and finding a newfound sense of hope for his future, despite his elimination from the competition.
Axel's advancement to the finals introduces another dramatic twist. In the absence of Kwon Jae-sung, victory seems assured for him, unless Cobra Kai can secure a replacement. The others, recognizing Miyagi-do Dojo's significant disadvantage against the Iron Dragons, have resigned themselves to defeat. Yet, Daniel remains steadfast, undeterred.
In a vision, Mr. Miyagi appears, engaging Daniel in a battle against a host of skeletal adversaries. This surreal spectacle mirrors Daniel's internal turmoil and his quest for answers and closure. Daniel's long-standing struggle finds solace in Miyagi's wisdom, who reveals that the answers lie not in physical battles, but within Daniel's own heart.
The following morning, Samantha decides to withdraw, unable to continue fighting amidst the recent turmoil at the dojo. Tory steps forward to take her place, a decision Daniel accepts, understanding Sam's resolve and the continuity of their legacy. Johnny, however, is less reconciled with this turn of events.
At the tournament, Johnny achieves his own catharsis, confronting Kreese about their shared history. He reveals his once-idolatrous admiration for Kreese, who betrayed him and abandoned him at his most vulnerable moment, leaving a profound scar. Emotions overflow as Kreese apologizes sincerely, seeking redemption.
With Miyagi-do seemingly out of contention, Axel's path to victory appears clear. But a dramatic twist unfolds: Miguel has switched sides, joining Cobra Kai, and Johnny Lawrence assumes the mantle of sensei, replacing Kreese. Kreese, present as an observer, sets the stage for a breathtaking conclusion to the tournament.
