James Mitose
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James Masayoshi Mitose (born Masayoshi Mitose, December 30, 1916 – March 26, 1981)[1] was a Japanese American martial artist who brought the art of Kenpo to the United States starting in 1936.
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Quick Facts Born, Died ...
James Mitose | |
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Born | Masayoshi Mitose (1916-12-30)December 30, 1916 Kailua-Kona, North Kona District, Territory of Hawaii |
Died | March 26, 1981(1981-03-26) (aged 64) San Quentin, California, United States (complications of diabetes) |
Other names | Masakichi, Kenposai Kosho |
Style | Kosho Shorei-ryū Kenpo |
Teacher(s) | Sakuhei YoshidaToju Kosho |
Rank | 21st Great Grand Master of Kosho Shorei-ryū Kempo |
Notable students | William Chow |
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Many Kenpo teachers trace their lineage to him.[2] Mitose was and remains a controversial figure in the history of Kenpo in America. He was convicted of murder and extortion in 1974 and given a life sentence. He died in prison in 1981 due to complications from diabetes.[3]