Elvis Presley "International Kenpo Karate" Black Gi - Former Jimmy Velvet Collection

Offered is Elvis Presley's black Karate Gi with "Kenpo Karate" tiger and dragon design patch on the left breast. The Gi shows heavy use and is presented without a belt or pants. Karate was an important part of Elvis Presley’s life in the early ‘70s and Ed Parker was an instrumental friend and teacher to Elvis in this art. Ed Parker founded American Kenpo karate based on the original art that he learned in Hawaii. The art is primarily a form of combat self-defense maneuvers, typically using circular motions, that results in a never-ending series of strikes to your opponent. After Ed Parker’s students began teaching his version of Kenpo in other countries, the International Kenpo Karate Association was formed. The Gi was part of the famous Jimmy Velvet "Elvis Presley Museum" and was sold with his collection as Lot 1280 in Velvet's October 6-7, 1995, Butterfield & Butterfield Auction (see images at left, including a photo of Elvis in a similar style Gi that came from the auction). Jimmy was a pioneer in the world of Elvis Presley collecting, acquiring 100s and 100s of items directly from Elvis' inner circle, friends and family for his museum. Excellent to Mint condition.