#9758 • Elvis Presley's Karate Black Belt & Gi Patches

Part of Music & Hollywood Icons Historical Occasion (timed auction by GWS Auctions)

Starting at $1.00

Status: Sold

Est. $10,000-$11,000 Elvis Presley's Karate Black Belt Signed by Master Kang Rhee W/Karate Gi Patches & Autographed Photos - This special piece was Elvis Presley's karate Black Belt, bestowed upon him by Master Kang Rhee. Elvis had a genuine love for Karate and Martial Arts, which began when he was in the Army and stationed in Germany. When he returned to the United States, Ed Parker, a kenpo master, who taught Elvis on and off until Presley's death. Presley earned his first-degree black belt in Memphis in 1960, under Chito-Ryu stylist Hank Slemansky. He then trained in a Memphis dojo under Master Kang Rhee, from 1970 to 1974 who eventually bestowed upon him his 7th degree black belt in 1973 and 8th degree black belt in 1974. Elvis' training under Master Kang Rhee was documented in the book "Elvis's Karate Legacy", written by Wayne Carman, who trained with Elvis under Master Rhee and remembers Presley as a passionate martial artist. This belt has been signed by Kang Rhee, and reads "Elvis was the warmest person I ever knew-Kang Rhee Karate Instructor, Memphis, Tennessee". The belt is cotton with a satin overlay, and the ends are embroidered with seven red tabs. The belt is also embroidered with Chinese calligraphy, Elvis' name, and his Karate nickname, "Tiger". The belt will also come with an Elvis-designed TCB emblem which is said to have adorned the left chest side of his Gi jacket, along with an additional TCB lightning bolt patch and Kang Rhee patch, which is said to have appeared on the back of some of his Gi's (he had six). This is truly a beautiful museum quality piece from one of the most iconic entertainers of the 20th century. This is an excellent investment piece, as Celebrity Memorabilia continues to rise in value faster and more steadily than any other asset class, due to the uniqueness and rarity of the items. This lot will also come with (2) photos of Elvis with Kang Rhee, both of which have been signed by Kang Rhee, and a copy of the autographed photo given to Master Rhee by Elvis.