Haughton Taekwondo Athletes Win World Championships

Northwest Louisiana now officially has World Champions. Haughton natives made the incredible trip to Buenos Aires, Argentina, to represent Team USA at the 2025 ITFU World Championships.

The competition ran from October 9th through the 12th, and the athletes from Broadway Martial Arts in Haughton brought home some serious hardware.

Benny Broadway

Layla Arendell Crowned World Champion

Representing Haughton's Broadway Martial Arts, Layla Arendell (a 3rd-degree black belt) delivered a remarkable performance on the world stage, officially crowning her a multiple-time World Champion.

Her dedication and training right here in Northwest Louisiana paid off big time, earning her three medals:

GOLD in Sparring

GOLD in Specialty Board Break

BRONZE in Patterns

Team USA Wins Big on the Global Stage

Over 26 countries came together to compete at the highest level, and the U.S. Taekwondo team made an impressive showing. Among the many highlights, the U.S. Men’s Team brought home bronze medals in both team patterns and sparring, marking a proud moment for the entire country.

Leading the charge was Benny Broadway (4th-degree black belt and owner of Broadway Martial Arts), who proudly served as Team Captain of the USA Men’s Taekwondo Team. Broadway also had the honor of coaching Layla throughout her gold-medal journey.

He wasn't alone: Lisa Broadway (6th-degree black belt) was an essential helping coach, proving that this small-town gym has the elite coaching talent to produce world-class athletes.

"A lot of long hours and hard work were put in to get to where we are today," Broadway said. "We made some great friends and memories that will last a lifetime."

The Road to Italy 2026 Starts in Haughton

With a new set of World Champions under their belt, the team is already looking ahead. The next World Championship will be held in Italy in 2026, and training has already begun right back home in Haughton, Louisiana, as the team sets its sights on even greater achievements.

Broadway Martial Arts is located at 4615 US-80 SWT. 5, Haughton, LA.

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Gallery Credit: Getty Images