Originally a YouTube series about Johnny Lawrence, the Karate Kid franchise has become a huge thing. The Cobra Kai series has become a huge part of its success. Season 5 was a major milestone, and with the three-part finale Season 6 arriving on Netflix as the final installment, it’s a great time to revisit the important events of Season 5.
Johnny and Daniel LaRusso’s journey from their first fight in the ring to becoming friends against Cobra Kai has been a long and eventful one. Here’s a recap of Season 5.
Cobra Kai Season 5 recap ahead of new Season 6
In The Karate Kid Part III, Daniel was betrayed by John Kreese and Terry Silver, which changed his view of Cobra Kai and influenced his initial doubts about Johnny reopening the dojo. By Season 5 of Cobra Kai, Daniel and Johnny, now unlikely allies, unite to confront Kreese and Silver. They shut down their dojo, but Silver’s continued influence forces them to take action again.
During season 5, Daniel strategically sends Chozen to destroy Cobra Kai from the inside, but Silver discovers the plan and attacks Chozen, who narrowly escapes. Silver’s schemes strain Daniel’s relationship with his wife Amanda.
Eventually, Amanda understands Daniel’s struggle after he takes refuge with her cousin. Cobra Kai seasons 4 and 5 look like direct sequels to Part III, with characters like Mike Barnes returning to help defeat Silver.
Meanwhile, Johnny Lawrence undergoes significant personal growth in Season 5. He travels to Mexico to locate Miguel with his son Robby, who is looking for his biological father. Johnny proves himself as a father to both Robby and Miguel, showing real change.
Johnny’s storyline comes full circle as he prepares to become a father again with Carmen. He becomes the voice of reason for Daniel, correcting his past mistakes and trying to be a better father.
Daniel re-learns Mr. Miyagi’s lessons
In season 5 of Cobra Kai, Daniel also goes through a journey to rediscover the teachings of Mr. Miyagi. Overwhelmed with a desire for revenge, Daniel distances himself from others, but eventually regains his focus with the support of his friends and family. The relationship between Daniel and Robby is reestablished, helping Daniel return to the path of teaching and justice.
Meanwhile, key characters such as Miguel, Robby, Sam, and Tory experience significant growth as they put aside their differences to unite against Cobra Kai. Miguel plays a key role in saving Robby, while Sam and Tory find common ground amid their rivalry. The season concludes with major cliffhangers: Terry Silver is defeated, Daniel and Johnny prepare for an international tournament, and John Kreese escapes from prison.
As Cobra Kai heads towards its end with Season 6, which is divided into two parts airing in July 2024 and November 2024 respectively, fans can expect intense developments until the final episode in 2025. Season 6, Part 1, will stream on Netflix from July 18.
After Cobra Kai, the Karate Kid saga will continue with new stories and an upcoming crossover film.
Also read: Jade Thirlwall releases teaser of her music video Angel of My Dreams; watch