I heard Ed Parker was a really nice guy and extremely skilled. I also like reading about his bromance with Elvis. But was Elvis a legit black belt or was it more of an honorary from Mr. Parker?
If I had to hazard a guess, I would say that Elvis was probably a legitimate black belt, but the high degree he was given was probably hard to justify as an outsider looking in. And as time wore on, I suspect he did not work to retain the skills. Use it or lose it.
Ed Parker devised a great system and was a pioneer in establishing some of the first karate schools in Southern California. He was also a marketing visionary seeing the value of associating with well-known celebrities to help build up his brand and reputation. "Bromance" is not the way I'd describe his relationship with Elvis.
The high degree was maybe an honorary due to his celebrity status, plus having Elvis as a friend may have helped add status to Mr. Parker's career. Supposedly Elvis gave him a car too? Either way, I'm sure it didn't hurt to be seen training with Elvis Presley. The stories are fantastic.
What’s the question?
He showed me a watch that Elvis gave him. Don't remember hearing about a car, though.
You knew Ed Parker?
I ran a kenpo school for a couple of years along with a business associate of his and had a few private lessons from him. Also had a little business promotion and social interaction so got an inside look behind the scenes - interesting and educational time.
From the footage I've seen, Elvis definitely was maybe close to a yellow belt.
He seemed to really enjoy Kenpo but maybe he was a little too busy to really make much progress.From the footage I've seen, Elvis definitely was maybe close to a yellow belt.
Wow, that is awesome. How was he? Did you enjoy the time training with him?
Yes, nobody can say the guy didn't have very strong sides. Just karate wasn't one of them
He triedYes, nobody can say the guy didn't have very strong sides. Just karate wasn't one of them
Where is the question?
