Brockville kickboxer’s tough loss still sparks worldwide attention after stunning rise

Her team says the backing from Brockville and several Ontario clubs played a major role in her success

Kristina Mabry of Brockville saw her run end at the Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre this week after a loss in her qualification bout, but the setback did little to dim her surprising climb in international kickboxing. The event is widely viewed as the “Olympics for Kickboxing,” and despite the defeat, Mabry secured a world ranking of 15.

The result caps an extraordinary year for the athlete, who made her debut in October 2024 and fought 21 times to qualify for Team WAKO Canada — a pace her supporters say is unmatched in the sport. She entered most bouts as an underdog, avoided knockdowns throughout the season and delivered strong scoring performances against more experienced opponents.

Her team says the backing from Brockville and several Ontario clubs played a major role in her success. While the loss was difficult, Mabry and her supporters view it as fuel for a stronger push toward the 2032 Olympics.

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