James Mitose
| James Mitose | |
|---|---|
Mitose at age 58 | |
| Born | Masayoshi Mitose December 30, 1916 Kailua-Kona, North Kona District, Territory of Hawaii |
| Died | March 26, 1981 (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 |
| Other information | |
| Notable students | William Chow |
James Masayoshi Mitose (born Masayoshi Mitose, December 30, 1916 – March 26, 1981) was a Japanese American martial artist who brought the art of Kenpo to the United States starting in 1936.
Many Kenpo teachers trace their lineage to him. 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.