Biography
Elmore was born and raised in Memphis, Tennessee. [2] At the age of 15, he began studying Japanese Shotokan Karate under his Memphis teacher, Julius L. Dorsey. [2] In 1982, he became the first kickboxer to gain a sponsorship from a major corporation, landing a personal service contract with Coors Beer. [2] He had many of his fights broadcasted on ESPN. [2] He wrote, produced, directed, and starred in the 1988 semi-autobiographical film, The Contemporary Gladiator (also released as Iron Thunder). [9]
He founded the Safari Initiative aimed at bringing African-style furnishings and products to a global market. [10] He has advocated for U.S. government support for this initiative to help modernize African trade. [10] He also created an all African home in Memphis as a showcase and cultural bridge. [10] In 2009, Congressman Steve Cohen commended Elmore on the House floor for his work in advancing U.S.-Africa cultural understanding. [10]
Professional career
Elmore is a martial artist from Memphis, Tennessee, recognized as a five-time World Karate/Kickboxing Champion. [2] [10] His career is notable not only for his success in the ring but also for his role as a pioneer who helped popularize the sport. [6]
Elmore won the PKA world Heavyweight Champion title on May 29, 1982, in Memphis. He defeated Demetrius Edwards to win his first world championship in a 12-round fight. [4] [2] In 1983 Elmore defended his PKA World Superheavyweight title against Bill Morrison winning by decision. [11] [12] [13] In 1983 Elmore defeated Tony Palmore by TKO in the 10th round. [2] [14] He also defeated John Jackson. [15]
In 1984 Elmore fought Tracy Thomas to defend his PKA Superheavyweight Title, winning by TKO in the 9th round. [6] [16] In that same year Elmore fought Rick Harris in a non-title fight winning by KO in the 1st round. [17] Also in 1984, he fought a rematch against Palmore in Miami. In that bout Elmore set a world record of throwing 190 kicks, but lost a split decision and his PKA Superheavyweight Title. [3] [18] [19] [2] In 1984 Elmore also defeated "Super" Ray Williams to win the KICK World Superheavyweight title. [2] Elmore also fought a non-title bout against William Eaves with Elmore winning by KO due to the three knockdown rule being in effect. [6] [20]
In 1985 Elmore defeated Bill Morrison in a rematch for the vacant KICK World Heavyweight championship. [6] Elmore was ranked #1 under the STAR ratings for Heavyweight in 1985. [21]
In 1986 he defended his KICK World Heavyweight title by beating Jeff Hollins by decision. [22] [23] In 1986 Elmore defeated the KICK US Heavyweight champion Melvin Cole by TKO in the 12th round defending his KICK World title. [24]
In 1987 he defeated Cole in a rematch. In April 1987 Elmore lost his PKC World Superheavyweight title to Brad Hefton by doctor stoppage due to an eye injury in the 12th round. [5] [25] [26] [2]
In 1990 Elmore fought Stan Longinidis losing a decision and his KICK World Superheavyweight Title. [27] [28] Longinidis vacated the KICK Superheavyweight title shortly after winning. [28]
After 1990 Elmore defended his KICK World Superheavyweight Title against the KICK US Superheavyweight champ Ken Wilhelm winning by KO in the 8th round. [29] In 1991 Elmore was the #12 ranked Superheavyweight by the PKO. [30]
In 1999, after a 3-year layoff, Elmore fought Dennis Alexio for the IKF heavyweight title losing by KO in the 12th round. [31]
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