Karate Combat Launches Layer-2 Network for Sports Licensing.

Karate Combat to Launch Hedera Layer-2 Network UP in Q1 2025

Fighting organization Karate Combat is gearing up for a major expansion with the launch of a Hedera layer-2 network called UP in the first quarter of 2025. This move will allow Karate Combat to license its innovative “Up Only Gaming” Tech stack that powers its app to other sports, leagues, and projects, potentially including Meme coins.

Popularity and Growth

Karate Combat, which boasts MMA legends Bas Rutten and Georges St-Pierre as ambassadors, has seen a Surge in popularity in recent years. This Growth can be attributed in part to its foray into the world of Cryptocurrency and its Token-driven user base. The Karate Combat Mobile and web app enables users to Bet with KARATE Tokens on upcoming fights, offering a unique and engaging Experience.

• Users Win KARATE tokens for correct bets
• No loss for incorrect bets

The incorporation of Cryptocurrency features and the involvement of professional athletes and Crypto influencers have contributed to Karate Combat’s recent success. In an interview with Decrypt, pseudonymous co-founder “Onlylarping” highlighted the organization’s mission to share its innovative Technology with other projects.

Expansion Plans and Projects

According to Onlylarping, there is significant interest from various sectors, including sports leagues, esports teams, startups, and more, to leverage the “Up Only Gaming” platform. As many as 20 to 30 projects are lined up to launch on the network, with more expected to join before the official launch.

The flexible nature of the UP network allows a wide range of projects to utilize its capabilities, including meme coins. While exclusivity agreements with major partners are a possibility in the future, the focus is on fostering a collaborative environment.

Token Utility and Rewards

Apps built on the UP network will facilitate transactions and interactions using the layer-2 infrastructure. Although projects are not required to launch a token on UP or Hedera, users can deposit various tokens onto the platform, with synthetic versions created for use within the app.

• Users are not obligated to launch a token on UP
• UP aims to incentivize user Adoption

Additionally, UP plans to introduce a token with a portion of the total supply allocated to a grants program, supporting early network builders. The team envisions a shared player base across different Games on the network, similar to successful models seen in other ecosystems like Telegram gaming.

Technical Improvements and Partnerships

The launch of UP will bring backend enhancements to the Karate Combat app, streamlining the user Experience by removing limitations and introducing on-Chain recording of predictions, fights, and Rewards. One of the significant developments is that UP will operate on Hedera, making it the network’s first layer-2 solution.

According to Onlylarping, the decision to partner with Hedera aligns with the organization's vision, supported by a longstanding relationship with the HBAR Foundation. The collaborative effort aims to streamline the adoption of Blockchain Technology among diverse projects, with an open-source library planned to assist future developers on the Hedera network.

Future Outlook and Tokenomics

The UP network anticipates allocating 30% of the total token supply to flow back to KARATE token holders, suggesting potential opportunities for Staking and enhanced Rewards within the platform. By fostering a vibrant ecosystem of interconnected games and applications, UP seeks to attract a broader audience to Karate Combat and beyond.

Ultimately, Karate Combat’s foray into Decentralized technologies and partnership with Hedera symbolizes a strategic move towards Innovation and collaboration within the sports and entertainment industry. As the organization looks ahead to the official launch of the UP network, the focus remains on expanding opportunities for diverse projects and delivering a seamless user experience.