Anthony "Amp" Elmore is the Father, Champion, Founder of Black Buddhism A Cultural Revolution & Missing link to ancient & Modern Unknown & Untold Black World History that Echoes, Enlightenment, Education, Enrichment , Erudition, Evocation & Eloquence
MEMPHIS, TN, November 04, 2025 /24-7PressRelease/ -- This story is more than just a News Release. Its 10,000 words. This story is designed to be a historical and educational document. The length is long whereas this is a story of "Black Memphis History and World Black History. There exists a culture, practice and history in Memphis to erase "Black Memphis History."
Anthony "Amp" Elmore a Memphis born 5-time World Kickboxing champion who lives in the historic Memphis African/American community of Orange Mound in Memphis, Tennessee, has achieved another historic and unprecedented milestone in global religious and cinematic history: he is the first person Black or White or otherwise in American History to create a 35mm theatrical biopic documenting a Buddhist journey. His 1988 film The Contemporary Gladiator is not only the first cinematic portrayal of a Black Buddhist in America it is the first Buddhist biopic in world film history, period.
Click here to see the 100% uncut German dub of the film (The Contemporary Gladiator)" Re-titled "Kickbox Gladiator." There exist a culture practice and history in Memphis of "Southern Tradition" whereas, Black History and Black achievement goes unknown and untold. This film is the first Independent 35mm Theatrical film in Memphis Film History and the 1st Kickboxing Film in World Film History.
While this film is obscured in Memphis this dubbed version of the film notes respect in Germany, there is a clear-cut racial discrimination and erasure of "Black Memphis history" in Memphis, Tennessee where Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. was killed on April 4, 1968. This discrimination happens in Memphis because many "Black Memphis Leaders betray the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King. Jr.
What must be noted; "The Memphis Shelby County Film Commission and the Shelby County Historical Commission used their function and authority to erase this "Black Memphis History" whereas A Black man Anthony "Amp" Elmore is the father of Memphis 35mm Independent theatrical Filmmaking in Memphis film history is racially erased in Memphis. This Black Memphis 1988 film is acknowledged in Germany and around the world but erased in Memphis. You can Google the film title "The Contemporary Gladiator" whereas it comes up around the world but obscured in Memphis History.
November of 2025 Anthony "Amp" Elmore is leading the fight against what the Wall Street Journal described as Memphis "A Backwards City with a plantation Mentality." The hallmark, culture and practice in Memphis, Tennessee is its erasure of "Black Memphis History." Anthony "Amp" Elmore is the 1st in Memphis history to not only "Chronicle Black Memphis History" Anthony "Amp" Elmore Memphis 1st 35mm Theatrical Filmmaker whose story via his 1988 theatrical film release "The Contemporary Gladiator" is the 1st biopic of a Buddhist Black or White in World Film history.
It was on June 9, 1993 that the Tina Turner biopic "What's Love Got to do it " premiered in America. The movie shows Tina Turner being introduced to the then NSA Buddhist faith. The date August 26, 1988 is the date listed that the biopic of Anthony "Amp" Elmore a Memphis born Black 5-time world Kickboxing Champion film titled "The Contemporary Gladiator" premiered in Memphis. The film tells the story how Anthony "Amp" Elmore joins the Buddhist faith and vows to become "The World Kickboxing Champion.
Click here to see a video titled: Anthony Amp Elmore Black Movie Contemporary Gladiator 1st Biopic of a Buddhist in World Film History . This is a 3 minute video of the Buddhist scenes in the 1988 Memphis movie.
This achievement positions Elmore as; the First Non-Asian Buddhist, Filmmaker or protagonist to tell his spiritual story through a theatrical biopic. Anthony "Amp" Elmore is the Founder and Champion of Black Buddhism, a Cultural Revolution that bridges ancient African wisdom and modern spiritual awakening. Elmore is a global Buddhist Leader, whose work redefines the narrative of Buddhism by reclaiming its African roots and centering Black identity and its untold Black Buddhist History.
The above scene was filmed in Anthony "Amp" Elmore's current Orange Mound Memphis home. The gentlemen sitting is the late Mr. Joseph Thomas who joined Buddhism while serving military duty in Okinawa in Japan. Everyone in the movie scene are Nichiren Buddhist. The Black Buddhist Altar in the scene is Anthony "Amp" Elmore's actual past Japanese Buddhist Altar.
In regards to Black Buddhist History Anthony "Amp" Elmore learned his "Black Buddhist History" from the 19th Century British Historian Sir Godfrey Higgins who wrote in his 1836 book the Anacalypsis about the Black Buddha write: "The time has now arrived when it becomes proper to enter upon an examination of the doctrines of the celebrated Buddha of India, which were the foundations of all the mythoses of the Western nations, as well as of those which we have seen of Cristna; and from these two were supplied most of the superstitions which became engrafted into the religion of Jesus Christ."
It is further written: In the time of Homer India was known to the world as "Eastern Ethiopia." Herodotus the father of history writes about India: "All the tribes I mentioned… their skins are all of the same color, much like the Ethiopians." (History of Herodotus (Greek Historian 484 B.C.E.)
Another important lesson is: Diodorus (Greek Historian 100 B.C.) writes "And upon his return to Greece, they gathered around and asked, "tell us about the great land of the Blacks called Ethiopia." And Herodotus said, "There are two great Ethiopian nations, one in Sind (India) and the other in Egypt."
Elmore's movement is more than spiritual—it is educational, diplomatic, and revolutionary. His archive fuses Buddhism, civil rights, kickboxing, and Pan-African diplomacy, linking figures like Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., B.R. Ambedkar, Tom Mboya, and Raila Odinga in a tapestry of truth and reclamation
Anthony "Amp" Elmore, the five-time World Kickboxing Champion and Memphis native, made World history as the **first person in the world to write, produce, direct, and star in a kickboxing film**. His 1988 movie, *The Contemporary Gladiator*, is not only the first kickboxing film in world cinema—it also made Elmore Memphis's first Independent 35mm theatrical filmmaker.
Click here to see a see a 12 minute video titled: Black man Gives quick Buddhist History Lecture how Buddha and Buddhism changed from Black to White.
While Black filmmakers like Spike Lee (*She's Gotta Have It*, 1986) and Robert Townsend (*Hollywood Shuffle*, 1987) were breaking ground in independent cinema, Elmore was blazing a parallel trail—fusing education, sports, activism, and storytelling. At age 34, Elmore brought his global kickboxing fame to the screen, but his journey began much earlier.
At just 15 years old, Elmore was a then "Colored lead Singer" in an all-white band during the ending of segregation in Memphis. The racial barriers he faced didn't radicalize him—they activated him. Anthony "Amp" Elmore learned about a culture and history of Memphis unknown to African/Americans via a segregated Memphis in 1968. His being then a "colored singer in an all white band gave Elmore a broad insight into Memphis culture and history. The band in 1968 performed on Elvis Presley's friend George Kline's WHBQ Talent Party. Elvis Presley graduated from Humes High School in Memphis and the band members all went to Humes High School that gave Elmore an insight and culture of White Memphis in 1968 while Elvis was living.
The unknown and untold story about Anthony "Amp" Elmore is his connection to Elvis Presley. While Anthony "Amp" Elmore is Black, via DNA Elvis Presley is cousin to Elmore via a White Grandfather who was a Red Coat in the British Army who was a "Gibbs" changed his name to John Lee Johnson his mother's maiden name which was Johnson. He married Winnie Presley who was Elmore's 5th Great Grand mother.
Anthony "Amp" Elmore mother's maiden name was Johnson on her father's birth certificate Frank Johnson he is listed as White. Elmore's Great Grandfather' name was Charlie Johnson. He was a horse trader and noted "lady's Man" in Mississippi. The White Johnson's were ranchers living in Texas they were mixed with Indian. Some were dark Charlie Johnson was listed a White because his father William Johnson was White.
In regards to Elvis Presley he loved Karate more than he loved life whereas in 1974 Elvis Presley opened the "Tennessee Karate Institute located at 1372 Overton Park" at Cleveland street in Memphis. Anthony "Amp" Elmore went to the Karate school whereas Elmore and World middle weight Karate Champion Bill Wallace had a what Elmore calls a "Historic Sparring Match."
Elmore recalls entering the Elvis Presley Karate school and Elvis body guard Red West had been whipped by Bill Wallace. Elmore notes me and Bill Wallace had an interesting match this was about 1975. Fast forward to 1982 when Anthony "Amp" Elmore was fighting for PKA World heavyweight title and the Memphis Commercial Appeal News paper staged a picture of Bill Wallace a retired World Karate/Kickboxing champion at Elmore's home whereas in the photo Elmore kicking a bag at his home gym and Bill Wallace is holding the bag.
In 1974 Elvis Presley financed the movie titled "The new Gladiators" whereas some of the film shows Elvis in his Karate School with Kang Rhee, Red West ,Bill Wallace and others. Anthony "Amp" notes that he was not only right in the middle of Elvis Memphis Karate association Elmore knew and worked with Elvis best friend George Kline being on Kline's T.V. show as a youth in 1968.
George Kline had a job as a Casino Host whereas complimented Elmore and his wife a meal. Elmore asked George Kline about Elvis relationship to Black singer Jackie Wilson, whereas Elvis asked Jackie Wilson was it okay to use some of his moves. When Jackie Wilson was ill with a comma Elvis paid Jackie Wilson hospital bills.
Click here to see Elvis demonstrating Karate in 1974 whereas Anthony "Amp" Elmore went to Elvis Karate School in 1974 and sparred in with Bill Wallace.
Fast forward to 1988 14 years later Anthony "Amp" Elmore produced not a documentary film as Elvis started in 1974. In 1988 Anthony "Amp" Elmore produced a 35mm theatrical Film titled "The Contemporary Gladiator." Anthony "Amp" Elmore explains Elvis Presley died in 1977 whereas five years later Anthony "Amp" Elmore not only fought for the world Karate Kickboxing titled, Elmore brought the Memphis Karate Community together whereas on May 29, 1982 Anthony "Amp" Elmore fought and won the PKA World Heavyweight titled defeating Demetrius "Oak Tree Edwards whereas Issac Hayes the living in Atlanta Elmore traveled to Atlanta to ask Issac Hayes to sing the National Anthem and help promote the fight.
Fast forward to Saturday August 17, 2002 Karate Master Patrick Wren who operates the Tennessee Karate Institute founded by Elvis Presley hosted the "Elvis Presley Memorial Karate Tournament Hall of fame; whereas Bill Wallace, Cynthia Rothrock, Ed Parker and Anthony "Amp" Elmore were honored via Karate & film.
Anthony "Amp" Elmore is clear had Elvis Presley lived to 1982 Elvis would have supported him and his efforts to promote Karate/Kickboxing in Memphis. Elvis not only opened a Karate school in 1974 in 1973 when Muhammad Ali fought Ken Norton Elvis Presley asked Muhammad can he come to the training camp and train with him. Elvis purchased Muhammad Ali a robe he wore before the fight. Muhammad Ali lost to Ken Norton and never wore the robe again.
Elmore explains there existed then a tradition, culture and respect of martial artist whereas Elvis Presley would have supported the Karate Kickboxing in Memphis. Elvis would just drop by Kang Rhee Karate school in Memphis. Elvis brought Kang Rhee a Cadillac.
Unknown and untold Anthony "Amp" Elmore has produced about 20 videos relating to Elvis Presley. Unknown and untold Elvis Presley use to hang out in the "Black Orange Mound Community in Memphis." My friend the late D.K. Pope told me they were playing football near then Bellevue where the Blacks were segregated to. Elvis with friends on motor cycles stopped and asked the Blacks could they play with them. They played Football together
What also makes "The Contemporary Gladiator" a unique Memphis film is that Anthony "Amp" Elmore asked the Memphis Karate community to assist a making the film. Those who had worked with Elmore since he started promoting Karate/Kickboxing in 1979 Elmore invited everyone to be themselves and a part of the movie. One example was the late Bob Kendall who was the referee played himself. Jimmy "The Jet" Blann who continues to operate a Karate school in Southaven, Mississippi not only played himself in the movie, Jimmy asked mother to play the White Memphis State English professor.
Patrick Wren who is an ultra close friend of Kickboxing Champion Bill Superfoot Wallace and who continues to operate the "Tennessee Karate Institute" founded by Elvis Presley, Patrick plays the role attorney Jim Lockard. The name Lockard is not mentioned in the film, but for Memphis history sake Attorney Jim Lockard represented Bill Wallace and the late John Lee whom Elmore would fight at the former Holiday Inn River mount Hotel. Patrice Wren plays the attorney in the movie scene.
In 2025 Elmore enrolled his son Siddhattha Gautama Elmore in Patrick's school. There exist a friendship and respect from the past.
The Peabody Hotel stands as a crown jewel of Memphis history—an institution so revered that its presence in film marks cultural legitimacy. In 1959, a scene from *A Face in the Crowd* starring Andy Griffith was filmed at the Peabody, cementing its place in cinematic lore. Nearly three decades later, in 1986, Anthony "Amp" Elmore made history when Gary Belz, son of the hotel's owner, extended an olive branch and invited Elmore to host his kickboxing events at the Peabody.
This was more than a venue—it was a declaration of success for a Black athlete in America. Elmore not only integrated the fight scene at the Peabody, but his film *The Contemporary Gladiator*, which premiered in August 1988, featured actual footage of his bout against Memphian Melvin Cole & William Eases inside the hotel.
The announcer in the film even calls out the Peabody by name, anchoring the moment in Memphis legacy. Yet despite this monumental achievement, Elmore's contribution was erased from Memphis film history by White Memphis Shelby County Film Commissioner Linn Sitler, while White filmmaker Jim Jarmusch's *Mystery Train*—premiered a year later—was elevated via a historic marker at G.E. Patterson and main Street in Memphis. Elmore's Peabody footage is not just a scene—it is Memphis history, Black history, and cinematic truth.
Click here to learn more view the video titled: Memphis 1st Independent Film The Contemporary Gladiator & Racist Historical Marker.
As a student Elmore 10th and 11th grade Elmore 1st went to integrated Memphis Tech high school and transferring back to All Black Hamilton High School his senior year, Elmore organized **Tennessee's first voter registration drive for 18-year-olds** in 1971, the year the voting age was lowered nationally.
Elmore introduced activism at Hamilton High School in Memphis whereas Elmore in line with the Black conscious cultural revolutionary movement in America adopted an African name and identified with the culture and pride of his African heritage adopting an unheard of in 1971 an African cultural integration whereas in the Hamilton High School year book his nickname is listed as Abiodun Bashi Oyewole an African name he adopted from an African American revolutionary group "The Last Poets". Elmore converted his large Afro hairdo into African braids worn today caused such a disturbance Hamilton High school in 1972. Principal Oliver Johnson threaten Elmore with a suspension unless he removed the braids.
Let's move back to 1970 as a student at Hamilton High at 17 years old Elmore had been exposed to the flower child hippie movement via his association with his White Band Members. Also regarding Eastern philosophy Elmore began his introduction into "Zen Buddhism through the rigorous discipline of **"Old Japanese Shotokan Karate."**
This style Karate earned its distinction by its **explicit inclusion of Zen Buddhist principles**, transforming the training into an austere pursuit of mind, body, and spirit. Elmore embraced the harsh regimen of the **Bushido Code**, including **meditation, cold showers, and physical hardening** (like hitting trees with bear knuckles to "bear the pain"), effectively becoming the closest figure to a Zen Buddhist monk in America, albeit adapting the practice from a uniquely challenging American perspective (such as meditating for long periods in the Japanese difficult sitting positions).
In the 1988 Elmore film "The Contemporary Gladiator" Elmore notes a regretful moment of his "Zen Buddhist Training." A beautiful woman who noticed Elmore dedication to Karate whereas she explained to Elmore how much she loved "Bruce Lee" and would he teach her Karate. Elmore gave a lesson his garage and she said she was sore and he give her a massage. Elmore gave the beautiful Woman in her bra and panties a massage and boasted because he studied Zen and old Japanese Shotokan Karate he was not a "Weak Man." Elmore notes that Zen Buddhism did not allow him to know that woman was coming own to him and Zen Buddhism had him blind and dumb. Elmore explains it this way; it like catching the largest fish and reeling in the fish and as you were about bring the fish aboard your boat its slips away. One never forgets that big one that got away.
Click here to see how Elmore made fun of himself regarding the story of how he gave the woman as Massage called the "Kool Aid Scene." This is a True story.
In 1974 Elmore was introduced to Nichiren Buddhism and a foundation led him to the explicit chanting practice of **Nichiren Buddhism (NSA) which he embraced as a Reformed Buddhist Practice, utilizing its teachings to transform his life.
Anthony "Amp" notes that it was the Nichiren Buddhism that taught him how to be "A Black Man in America." In Nichiren Buddhism there is a Buddhist concept called "Chudo." Chūdō literally means "Middle Way" or "Middle Path" in Japanese. It represents a path that transcends extremes neither indulgence in pleasure nor harsh asceticism. In Nichiren Buddhism, this concept is not just philosophical but practical and spiritual, guiding how one lives, practices, and engages with society.
Elmore explains that so many us "Black Revolutionaries" got lost and the struggle and still fighting using old revolutionary tactics and not a part of society. Anthony "Amp" Elmore explains I changed my name, had a super large Afro, wore an African dashiki everyday and would "Raise my Fist via a Black power sign." Elmore notes I called my Carpet Company "Pamoja Carpet Company." (Pamoja means Together in Swahili.) It was the NSA Buddhist spiritual journey that lead Anthony "Amp" Elmore to a different path whereas Elmore still a revolutionary but within society. This story is not about raising a Black fist but raising Black education.
This spiritual journey culminated in the **1988 film, "The Contemporary Gladiator,"** which is a triple historical landmark: the **first kickboxing film in world film history**, the first independent **35mm theatrical feature film made in Memphis**, and the **first biopic of an American-born Buddhist in world film history**—explicitly showcasing his Nichiren Buddhist faith as the engine of his success, a narrative shown worldwide under titles like *Iron Thunder* and *Kickbox Gladiator*.
In 1996 Elmore further pioneered cultural diplomacy by becoming the **first American to film at Nichiren Shoshu Buddhist Temple in both Japan and Africa.**Elmore's historical thesis is deeply rooted in the work of 19th-century British historian **Sir Godfrey Higgins**, who argued that the ancient source of global civilization and religion derived from a **Black civilization** (the **Cushites/Nubians**) that stretched to India, claiming early Christianity and Western mysticism were influenced by Black Buddhists from India.
Elmore built upon this by asserting that Buddhism begins not in Asia, but in **Ancient India and Nubia**, thereby making it fundamentally **Black History**. He points out that the image of the Buddha was racially transformed via the rise of **Mahayana Buddhism** under figures like **King Kanishka**, who used Hellenistic art (Gandharan style) to systematically **change the Buddha from Black to White**, a deliberate act of **extricating Black history from the faith.
** Elmore highlights unacknowledged historical truths, such as the **Great Buddha in Nara, Japan** (the world's largest indoor statue), which he notes is a clearly recognizable **Black Buddha** whose racial identity is suppressed. This educational and historical focus is the core of "Black Buddhism," which he defines by its teaching of this history, not by silent meditation.
Anthony "Amp" Elmore had been a Buddhist for years whereas in 1976 Elmore read the book by his Buddhist master and Teacher the late Daisaku Ikeda. The book was called "The Living Buddha: An Interpretive Biography (Soka Gakkai History of Buddhism." Elmore would later read the book "Malcolm X on Afro American History" originally published in 1967.
Malcolm X the great Black hero introduced in his speech that the Buddha was Black and he made references to the ancient Buddhist statues. This is what Malcolm X said: "in their religion, which is called Buddhism, they give all their Buddhas the image of a black man, with his lips and his nose, and even show his hair all curled up on his head; they didn't curl it up, he was born that way" Malcolm X, Black Leader January 24, 1964. Anthony "Amp" Elmore was thrilled to share with fellow Buddhist about his new found knowledge that the Buddha was Black.
The late SGI leader Daisaku Ikeda sent young dynamic Japanese leaders from Japan. Anthony "Amp" Elmore notes that "Daisaku Ikeda dropped the hammer on us. These Japanese leaders replaced all of the Black leaders in America whereas the culture and practice of NSA/SGI Buddhism changed in America. Anthony "Amp" Elmore described the move of replacing all Black leaders as "Japanese Cultural Imperialism." The SGI replaced most Black men and put Black women as the leaders. Today in America it is Black women who are the most influential Buddhist leaders.
The Soka Gakkai headed by Daisaku Ikeda the Buddhist lay organization and Nichiren Shoshu would split into separate Buddhist organizations. Specifically, the definitive break occurred on November 28, 1991, when the Nichiren Shoshu priesthood issued an "Order of Dissolution" and a "Notice of Excommunication" to the Soka Gakkai (the lay organization which evolved into the SGI), officially severing their 60-year relationship. 90% of the members remained with the SGI and only 10% remained with Nichiren Shoshu.
In the West African Country of Ghana SGI Buddhist leader Daisaku Ikeda attempted to change the leadership in the West African Country of Ghana that was lead by Black Ghanaian Joseph Asomani A leader the Ghanaians loved and respected. The Africans refused to change their leader whereas whereas Daisaku Ikeda excommunicated 90% of the members in Ghana who refused to change their leader.
The Ghana members departed from the SGI and practiced Independent of the SGI, whereas they contacted and joined the Nichiren Shoshu Temple whereas a member purchased land and the Ghana Nichiren Shoshu members with the help of the Nichiren Shoshu support built the largest Nichiren Shoshu Temple outside of Japan.
Anthony "Amp" Elmore traveled in 1998 to the Nichiren Shoshu Temple opening in Accra, Ghana as the official Videographer. Anthony "Amp" Elmore not only bonded with the members in Ghana Anthony "Amp" Elmore documented a history and culture of Blacks living and practicing Buddhism in Africa whereas Anthony "Amp" Elmore Created a website called "The Proud Black Buddhist.org" the 1st Website in American history that specifically gave Blacks people a voice in Buddhism. Anthony "Amp" Elmore via his website integrated "Black Buddhist History."
The story of Ghana was unknown and untold to Black Buddhist members in America. In fact when Elmore told NSA Buddhist members in America what was going on in Ghana the members in Memphis not only rejected what Anthony "Amp" Elmore revealed, Elmore shared a video tape of Ghana members send messaged to America. Specifically Elmore sent the tape to one he called his Buddhist Father "The Late Joseph Thomas."
Mr. Thomas would not accept the video Elmore sent in 1998. 10 years earlier in 1988 Mr. Thomas is in the movie "The Contemporary Gladiator playing himself.
Anthony "Amp" Elmore established a monumental digital footprint. In **1998**, he founded the **Proud Black Buddhist .org** website, a pioneering platform that stands as **one of the world's first Buddhist websites** and definitively the world's first Black Buddhist website.
Through his independent channels, Elmore has generated an enormous volume of content—estimated at nearly **1,000 videos** and numerous educational news stories.
This sheer output establishes him as the **most prolific independent digital writer and teacher of Buddhism in America**, using his platforms as the true **"Black Buddhist Voice in America"** to challenge Asian-affiliated Buddhist sects that fail to teach and stress the Black founders of the faith. This independent, action-oriented commitment to cultural and historical truth is why Anthony "Amp" Elmore is the undisputed **Father of Black Buddhism in America.**
Black Buddhism is a distinct spiritual and historical movement that reclaims the African roots of Buddhist philosophy, positioning ancient Egypt and the Indus Valley Civilization as foundational to Buddhist history. Unlike African Americans who simply practice Buddhism within existing sects, Black Buddhism asserts an independent lineage rooted in Black history, culture, and scholarship.
Just as the Black Church emerged with its own identity and historical foundation, Black Buddhism centers on the untold legacy of Black Buddhists—connecting Nubia and India through the Cushite civilizations.
British historian Sir Godfrey Higgins documented that ancient Egyptians, Indians, and Nubians were Black, and that the elder Buddha was Hermes Trismegistus, with Shakyamuni as the younger. Anthony "Amp" Elmore is the first American Buddhist to formally articulate and document this history, establishing Black Buddhism as a movement that reframes Buddhist origins through the lens of African ancestry. By declaring that Buddhist history is Black history, Elmore becomes the father of Black Buddhism in America—building a legacy that parallels the founding of the Black Church and restoring Africa's central role in global enlightenment.
Starting his NSA Buddhist practice in 1974 Elmore joined the NSA Buddhist Sect. NSA means "Nichiren Shoshu of America." The group had a mantra "Nam Myoho Renge Kyo" and a slogan "World Peace Through Individual Happiness" whereas it was taught that you could change the world via changing yourself.
Former President Barack Obama won the Presidency via the mantra of "Hope." The NSA Buddhist Movement taught a philosophy of "Faith in America" whereas if you change yourself you can change your environment. Elmore then a 22 year old African/American Zen practicing Karate Black Revolutionary took NSA to heart. Also many others made the greatest change in their lives via NSA Buddhism whereas many Americans found a new faith in America.
In 1976 Elmore remember going to New York for the NSA Buddhist "We Love America Rally." There were so many flags that the NSA looked to break the Guinness book of world record of American Flags. Elmore notes; we NSA Buddhist put on some of the greatest patriotic celebrations in American history. Elmore explains via the SGI /NSA movement he experienced an America that most African/Americans can only dream of.
Elmore explains that he traveled the world as a Kickboxing champion whereas fighting in Australia, traveling to Japan or going to Africa he could go into a town as a Black man because he was a Buddhist he could call other Buddhist and was treated as family. One case and point Anthony "Amp" Elmore traveled to Ghana in 1998 to the opening of the "First Nichiren Shoshu Temple in Africa." Whereas Elmore filmed the opening of the Nichiren Shoshu temple ceremony in Accra, Ghana in 1998. In Chicago there was a White Engineer named Craig Bratcher who could read HTML. Craig Bratcher a White NSA Chicago member created Elmore's website Elmore named; "Proud Black Buddhist. Org."
Websites were not common in 1998 whereas Elmore had not only "The 1st Black Buddhist Website in American History, Elmore had one of the 1st Buddhist Websites in American history." Elmore recalls I later made the greatest mistake. Originally "The Proud Black Buddhist .org" website was the 1st and number one Black Buddhist website in the world whereas Elmore stop publishing and lost the website along with the 1st ranking and named Black Buddhist. Elmore notes I was the 1st Black Buddhist in the world to have a website and tell Black History.
Let's move this story back to Anthony "Amp" Elmore in 1970 to share a part of Anthony "Amp" Elmore history as it relates to "Cause and Effect" as taught in Buddhism. During a speech class at Hamilton High School in Memphis in 1970 Elmore's White teacher Mrs. Kennedy allowed Students to invite Speakers to the speak to the speech class, whereas Elmore would invite the "War on Poverty" Director" the late Washington Butler Jr. to speak at his class. This endured a relationship that would change Elmore's life forever.
In 1971 A group of Black Memphis School teacher Activist headed by the late Minerva Johnican who would later become a Shelby County Commissioner, the late Katheryn Bowers who would later become a Tennessee State Representative and Yvonne Acey who is co-founder of the Memphis African in April Cultural Celebration. The group were trying to get a breakthrough in Memphis whereas Washington Butler Introduced Minerva Johnican to Anthony Elmore.
The Black female group formed an organization called "The Inner City Voter Education Committee." The group were advocating Civil Rights and advocating voting among Youth. Anthony Elmore a Hamilton high Afro-centrist met with Minerva Johnican who was looking for students to arrange voter registration among 18 year olds.
When Elmore was in the 2nd grade Dunn Elementary School at 7 years old Elmore remembered Minerva Johnican was a 3rd Grade teacher. Minerva pitched to Elmore about voter registration whereas Elmore took the idea to the Hamilton High school principal Oliver Johnson, whereas Coach Hosea took a bus load of Hamilton students to register to vote.
Elmore's activism placed him in rooms with civil rights legends. Minerva Johnican the fiery Black activist took Elmore to many meeting she attended with civil rights icons like Rev. James Lawson, who taught Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. the Gandhian method of nonviolent resistance, and Ralph Jackson, another King confidant who lead the garbage strike in Memphis and Judge Russell B. Sugarmon a civil Rights activist. Elmore remembers being in a meeting with the newly elected Mayor of Cleveland Ohio Carl Stokes who was elected in 1967 and took office in 1968. He was the 1st Black Mayor elected to a major city in America. When Shirley Chisholm visited Memphis running for President in 1972 Anthony "Amp" Elmore was among the audience.
Elmore knew and worked with Rev. Billy Kyles, who was with Dr. King on the day of his assassination and later founded Operation PUSH in Memphis. As a freshman at the University of Memphis, Elmore met Rev. James Bevel, the strategic architect of the Civil Rights Movement. Inspired Elmore to quit college and join the civil rights movement with Rev. James Bevel full time. Elmore and others traveled to Memphis as delegates of the 1st Black political Convention in Gary, Indiana in 1972.
Click here to view the Story of the late Rev. James Bevel "The Architect of the Civil rights movement." In the movie the Contemporary Gladiator the early scene of Rev. is that of James Bevel who was the brainchild of the Selma to Montgomery March and more. Anthony "Amp" Elmore and others traveled to the 1st Black Political Convention in Gary, Indiana in 1972 whereas Elmore being with James Bevel whom everyone knew gave Elmore who was a delegate a deep insight and history of whose who in Black America.
Ava DuVernay made history as the first Black woman to direct a film nominated for Best Picture at the Academy Awards. Her 2014 film *Selma*, produced by Oprah Winfrey, brought national attention to the 1965 Selma to Montgomery marches and highlighted Rev. James Bevel's strategic role in the movement. Rapper Common portrayed Bevel, helping to reintroduce his legacy to a new generation. However, long before *Selma* reached Hollywood, Anthony "Amp" Elmore had already documented Bevel's impact through lived experience and independent filmmaking. Bevel is seen earlier in the film as Rev. played by the Memphis Africa in April Cultural Celebration founder Dr. David Acey who was also a former professor of Black studies at the University of Memphis.
Elmore's 1988 film *The Contemporary Gladiator* is not just earlier—it's deeper. Unlike *Selma*, which dramatizes history through actors and scripts, Elmore's real life story knew Rev. James Bevel as himself and reflects real-life mentorship and activism. Elmore didn't learn about Selma from a movie; he learned it directly from Bevel, even quitting college to join his movement.
While DuVernay's *Selma* is a landmark achievement in Black cinema, *The Contemporary Gladiator* stands as a grassroots historical record of James Bevel in a movie—years ahead in capturing Bevel's philosophy, voice, and influence from the inside out. Together, these works form a powerful continuum: DuVernay elevated Bevel's legacy to the mainstream, while Elmore preserved it from the front lines.
In 1975 Elmore's friend the late Washington Butler Jr. would run for Governor of Tennessee a role that would land him as "The commissioner of Urban and Federal Affairs with former Tennessee Governor Ray Blanton.
In regards to Black Memphis History in 2025 Anthony "Amp" Elmore can boldly state that in regards to Black Memphis History there are few people living in Memphis today that had a broader personal interaction with those who made civil rights history in Memphis more than Anthony "Amp" Elmore Sr.
Elmore challenge anyone to do a search of the word "Contemporary Gladiator " and this is what comes up via the IMDB: A ghetto-born martial arts student must choose between college, with its rigors and deprivation, and the world heavyweight kickboxing championship, with its glamour and gorgeous babes.
The description of Elmore's movie is a "White Stereo type" that characterize Blacks born in a "Ghetto." Unknown and untold Anthony "Amp" Elmore's family moved into a historic African/American Community called "Elliston Heights" when Elmore was only 6 months old. In retrospect Elmore notes that he 1st grew up in an amazing community far from a Ghetto. Unknown and untold Elmore grew up in one of Memphis 1st "Planned Black Subdivisions." The houses had only two bedrooms.
Elmore notes; let's switch the topic to share a tidbit of Black Memphis History in regards to Elliston Heights in Memphis. Unknown and untold this community was one of three Black Memphis subdivisions created by Dr. J.E. Walker who opened Black Tri-State Bank and Universal Life Insurance Company one of the largest Black life insurance companies in America. Dr. J.E. Walker, Educator and Pastor of Mississippi Blvd. Christian Church Rev. Blair T. Hunt and Rev. T.O. Fuller whom Black Fuller Park was named after all were supporters of the White Supremacist Southern traditionalist Mayor E.H. Crump.
Dr. Walker created Riverside, Walker homes and Elliston Heights Black subdivisions. He was not allowed to acknowledge he built the communities whereas such information would demonstrate "Black Power" whereas such was not allowed under the Crump rules in Memphis whereas Black had to stay in their place.
Elmore recalls in retrospect; we had a community and family. There was one of the youth in the community named Larry Lee. Larry was left handed and very talented in many things like baseball. Larry would sit in his back yard and make his guitar talk. Musical Instruments were common in the Elliston Heights community, one neighbor played in an orchestra. We youth had instruments and formed a band whereas there was a support system that encouraged us as in a band. Mr. L.C. Burditt was our manager and supporter.
Larry Lee went to college at Tennessee State whereas he played in a local Black band in Nashville. What we knew in the community, Larry got drafted, as so many Black youth to go to Vietnam. Prior to his leaving to go to the Army one of his band Member friends traveled to Larry's home to say goodbye. His fellow band member had a Volkswagen heading to New York. Larry told his friend, since he was going to New York he needed a Coat Larry gave his friend his suede coat. Larry's friend was known to wearing clothes relating to that swede coat.
Fast forward to 1969 where Larry would get out of the Army and calls his friend who told Larry that he had a gig in New York and he would join the band. The gig was at the legendary "Woodstock" and Larry's friend was the famed guitar play "Jimmy Hendrix." Larry is seen playing with Jimmy Hendrix at Woodstock. Larry would later become the band director for Memphis Soul singer Al Green.
Click here to listen to Larry Lee from Elliston Height Play solo with Soul Singer Al Green.
There was another youth out of our community that Larry helped with his guitar playing. Whereas also in 1969 Grammy and Oscar winner Issac Hayes released an Album called "Hot Buttered Soul." This Album was innovative. Anthony "Amp" Elmore remember going to Barry Wilkins home and we were listening to the guitar riffs in one on the songs called "Walk on Bye."
Harold Bean born in 1947 a friend to Elmore's older brothers played guitar on that song. Harold Bean would become a legendary "Soul Funk" guitar player who would joined the legendary band of George Clinton's Parliament Funkadelic whereas it was Harold Bean's Futuristic guitar soul. Barry would join the legendary Barkays band in Memphis.
Elmore notes it is outright remarkable for any Black person in America to have lived in a "Planned Black Subdivision a history unknown and untold in Memphis, Tennessee. The question one may ask is what does moving in a planned Black Subdivision have to do with the subject: Anthony Elmore A Memphis Born 5-time World Kickbox Champ, Father of Black Memphis History, Filmmaker, Created 1st Biopic of an American Buddhist in World Film History, Father of Black Buddhist History
Anthony "Amp" Elmore explains; there is no separation between his identity Anthony Elmore A Memphis Born 5-time World Kickbox Champ, Father of Black Memphis History, Filmmaker, Created 1st Biopic of an American Buddhist in World Film History, Father of Black Buddhist History. These titles are not isolated achievements—they are deeply interconnected expressions of his life's purpose, rooted in both physical mastery and spiritual enlightenment.
In late 1974, Elmore joined the Nichiren Shoshu of America (NSA), a Buddhist sect that centers its teachings on the Lotus Sutra as revealed by the Black Japanese Buddhist sage Nichiren Shonin. Nichiren taught that the essence of Shakyamuni Buddha's teachings lies solely in the Lotus Sutra, which he declared to be the only correct doctrine of Buddhism. It Anthony "Amp" Elmore who notes that Nichiren was Black. Unknown and untold in America that the Ancient Japanese were Black people.
Click here to see a video produced by Japanese scientist clearly stating that the 1st Japanese were Black people. One tidbit the Shogun of Japan was a Black man. The Video you will see is tiled; Nichiren and Ancient Japanese were Black: Lecture by Anthony "Amp" Elmore.
Nichiren Buddhism is transmitted through letters known as "The Gosho," and one of Elmore's most cherished writings is "The Gift of Rice." In this Gosho, Nichiren writes, "The true path lies in the affairs of this world." He quotes the Golden Light Sutra: "To have a profound knowledge of this world is itself Buddhism," and the Nirvana Sutra: "All of the non-Buddhist scriptures and writings in society are themselves Buddhist teachings, not non-Buddhist teachings."
These passages were later interpreted by the Great Teacher Miao-lo, who compared them to the sixth volume of the Lotus Sutra, which states, "No worldly affairs of life or work are ever contrary to the true reality." Miao-lo clarified that while the Golden Light and Nirvana Sutras are profound, they still fall short of the Lotus Sutra's depth. The former relate secular matters in terms of Buddhism, but the Lotus Sutra teaches that secular matters are not just related—they are the entirety of Buddhism.
Through this understanding, Elmore came to realize that true Buddhist practice is not found in ascetic rituals or Zen techniques of enduring pain—such as meditating in icy waters or breaking knuckles against concrete walls—but in the lived experience of everyday life. The Lotus Sutra taught him that enlightenment is not separate from the world; it is found within it. This revelation shaped Elmore's philosophy and life's work, allowing him to integrate martial arts, historical documentation, cultural diplomacy, and spiritual leadership into a unified path of purpose. His journey exemplifies the principle that secular life is not a distraction from Buddhism—it is Buddhism itself.
The Title of the Lotus Sutra is "Myo Renge Kyo." Nichiren add the prefix nam or namu which means "To awaken." Myo mean "Correct" Ho means "Law" "Renge" is a metaphor that represents the law of "Cause and Effect" and Kyo Means "Teachings." It means not just the teachings of the Buddha Shakyamuni Buddha but Kyo means all of the teachings in the Universe.
In essence "Namu Myoho Renge Kyo" means to "Awaken to the Correct Law of Cause and Effect Teachings." Nichiren explained that simply reciting the title of the Lotus Sutra can lead to enlightenment.
In Nichiren Buddhism, the concept that the past, present, and future exist in a single moment is rooted in the profound teaching known as *Ichinen Sanzen*, or "Three Thousand Realms in a Single Moment of Life." This doctrine, originally formulated by the Japanese Buddhist master Tendai and later embraced by Nichiren, reveals that every moment of life contains the full spectrum of existence. It teaches that our inner life condition determines how we experience the world, and that all phenomena—across time and space—are reflected within our consciousness at every instant.
The idea that past, present, and future coexist in a single moment challenges the conventional linear view of time. Instead, it suggests that time is dynamic and interpenetrating: the past influences the present, the present reinterprets the past, and the future is shaped by our current state of life. By chanting *Nam-myoho-renge-kyo*, practitioners activate their Buddha nature, allowing them to transform their life condition and, in doing so, reshape both their future and their relationship with the past. This teaching empowers individuals to understand that each moment holds infinite potential and that enlightenment is accessible here and now—not in some distant future.
In regards to "Elliston Heights Subdivision;" there lived another youth by the name of Julius L. Dorsey. Julius Dorsey represented the group of Black veterans who returned out of the military with "disillusionment." To join the military fight in Viet Nam and come back to America and face injustice many Black veterans face disillusionment in America.
Julius Dorsey leaned Karate in the military while stationed in Panama. Julius learned "Old Japanese Shotokan Karate." This was called "Old Japanese because the practiced included "Zen Buddhism." Julius Dorsey was tough before karate. Julius was the type of man comedian Richard Pryor joked where he say the hands so ruff you can strike a match on the hands. Julius had knuckles the size of golf balls from breaking them over and over hitting trees and concrete.
Julius earned the honorific titled of "Sensei." In 1970 just out of the military learned that Anthony "Amp" Elmore wanted to learn Karate. Julius became Anthony "Amp" Elmore Karate master and teacher. Julius Dorsey's Karate lessons were Zen Buddhism mixed with Black Nationalism. The Karate training was militarism. Julius would join the NSA Buddhist sect whereas all of his students would join the NSA Buddhist sect.
Julius a Karate master reformed no longer a Zen Master whereas he became a leader in the NSA Buddhist organization and later a Nichiren Shoshu leader whereas he would organize one of the largest Black Buddhist groups in America.
While Anthony "Amp" Elmore joined the NSA Buddhist Organization under Julius they would take different paths. Anthony "Amp" Elmore was not only a world kickboxing champion Elmore was the 1st and perhaps only kickboxer in America to be sponsored by a major American corporation. Anthony "Amp" Elmore was sponsored by "Coors Beer." Coors Beer gave Elmore something most African/Americans or many people do not own. Coors gave Anthony "Amp" Elmore time. Elmore notes I could go to school, learn typing write a movie script and produce a movie. In the film Elmore shows how "Coors Beer" saved him.
Julius Dorsey not only played himself in the movie Julius Dorsey an artist did the make up and was part of the film production crew. Julius Dorsey now deceased would smile and note that his part in the movie was him 100%. Anthony "Amp" Elmore explains that his Shotokan Karate training was so hard that fighting other people was easy and how he became a World Champion.
One interesting tidbit Elmore noted; we were somewhere and Bill Superfoot Wallace was demonstrating his fast kick whipping everyone. Julius said try that on me. Bill Superfoot Wallace threw a fast Kick Julius leaned back in a Shotokan Back Stance and countered with a perfect strike something you see in the movies.
Julius abruptly stopped and the session was over. Bill Wallace said no don't stop Julius whispered I am not going to show that White Boy my techniques. Elmore notes that he wished he could have seen more. Julius did not show his Karate to the public nor did he want his students showing his Karate techniques.
In Elmore's movie "The Contemporary Gladiator" Anthony "Amp" Elmore had the opportunity to repay his Karate teacher. In real life Sensei Dorsey kicked Elmore out of his class whereas Elmore moved into Kickboxing and becoming a World Champion. Anthony "Amp" Elmore owed a debt of gratitude to Julius L. Dorsey. Elmore honored his sensei via the scene in the movie whereas his instructor jumps into the ring slaps him to fight via "Old Japanese Shotokan Karate." That part of the movie was "Hollywood Hype."
Most important while unknown and untold in America many Black Martial Arts masters emerged in America but Black stories goes untold. Elmore explains, we know about Black football, baseball, basketball, track now tennis and Gymnastics however we do not have a history of our Black Karate masters.
Anthony "Amp" Elmore shows the late Karate master Julius L. Dorsey a Black Karate Master of Old Japanese Shotokan Karate. There was dynamic Black Karate teachers in Memphis like the late Benny Green, Ulysses Weakly, Ernie Smith and other Blacks who taught Karate in Memphis. Anthony "Amp" Elmore notes who is it that can tell the Black Karate History in Memphis.
The title "Father of Black Buddhism" is a powerful and fitting recognition of Anthony "Amp" Elmore's pioneering legacy. As the first person in history to write, compose, and produce original Buddhist teachings, music, and films rooted in the Black experience, Elmore has redefined what it means to practice Buddhism from an African American perspective. He didn't merely adopt Buddhism—he reclaimed it, re-rooted it in Africa's spiritual heritage, and built a movement that connects the ancient wisdom of Nubia and India to the modern struggle for Black liberation.
Elmore a singer in a band in 1968 hired Chris Ward Keyboard player and Clarence Covington a guitar player and NSA Buddhist to score the movie in Elmore's Orange Mound home. Anthony "Amp" Elmore performed many of the songs in the movie.
A few years ago Anthony "Amp" Elmore hired Walleon Bobo to arrange all of his Buddhist song whereas Elmore has created about 20 Songs.
Click here to visit that Anthony "Amp" Elmore You Tube Song list of 20 Black Buddhist songs.
Through his groundbreaking work as a filmmaker, recording artist, historian, and cultural ambassador, Elmore has created a living monument to Black Buddhist philosophy. His teachings, websites, videos, and press releases form a digital archive that empowers future generations to seek themselves into the path to enlightenment.
By uniting African Americans and Dalits, Memphis and Kenya, Buddhism and Pan-Africanism, Elmore has transformed Black Buddhism into a global liberation movement. The title "Father of Black Buddhism" not only honors his historical firsts—it positions him as the definitive authority in a field he created, anchoring his legacy in search engines, institutions, and the hearts of truth-seekers worldwide.
Anthony "Amp" Elmore's journey into Buddhism is not just spiritual—it is historical, cinematic, and revolutionary. One of the most defining moments in this journey occurred when Elmore stood inside in 1996 the Nichiren Shoshu Temple in Taisekiji, Japan, the head temple of the Nichiren Shoshu sect and the spiritual center of one of the most influential Buddhist movements in modern history.
This was not a tourist visit or a casual pilgrimage—it was a moment of deep immersion, documentation, and cultural reclamation. Elmore was there not only as a practitioner but as a filmmaker and historian, capturing footage and creating content that would later become part of the **first Black Buddhist documentaries ever produced**.
This act—filming inside Taisekiji—was unprecedented. No other African American had documented their spiritual journey inside the heart of Japanese Nichiren Buddhism. Elmore's presence there symbolized a bridge between continents, cultures, and centuries. It was the beginning of a new narrative: one where Black identity and Buddhist enlightenment were no longer separate paths, but one unified journey.
From that moment in Japan to the release of *The Contemporary Gladiator* in 1988, Elmore's life became the living embodiment of the Lotus Sutra's core teaching: **Buddhism equals everyday life**. He didn't practice Buddhism as a ritual or a philosophy—he practiced it because he was living. As Elmore himself explains, "I do not practice Buddhism as a way of life—my life is the way of Buddhism." This distinction is profound. It means that every act, every struggle, every triumph in his life is an expression of enlightenment. His music, his martial arts, his activism, his filmmaking—all are manifestations of the Buddha's wisdom in motion.
Black Buddhism, as Elmore defines it, is not an adaptation of Asian traditions—it is a reclamation of African spiritual heritage. It teaches that Shakyamuni Buddha was Black, and that the teachings of Buddhism originated in a cultural context that included Africa and India as one spiritual people.
It rejects the historical whitening of the Buddha and the institutional gatekeeping of Asian sects. Instead, it centers Black history, culture, and consciousness as essential to the path of enlightenment.
Elmore's work—his films, websites, music, and teachings—form the foundation of this tradition. He created the **first Black Buddhist website**, composed original Black Buddhist songs, and built a digital archive that documents the philosophy, history, and culture of Black Buddhism. His legacy is not just spiritual—it is cinematic, digital, and global. He is the **Father of Black Buddhism**, and his life is the sutra that future generations will study, cite, and celebrate.
This is not just a story—it is a release. It is the unveiling of a tradition that has been hidden, erased, and ignored. It is the moment when Black Buddhism steps into the light, with Anthony "Amp" Elmore as its origin, its architect, and its living proof.
**Black Buddhism is not a borrowed tradition—it is a sovereign spiritual movement authored by Black hands, voiced through Black culture, and rooted in African history.** And no one has done more to define, document, and declare this truth than Anthony "Amp" Elmore—the undisputed Father of Black Buddhism.
While others sought permission, Elmore built a movement. While others followed Asian masters, he became a master of his own path. While others waited to be seen, he made himself undeniable. In the heart of Memphis, Tennessee—a city steeped in Black struggle and Black brilliance—Elmore created what no one else in the world had dared: the first independent 35mm theatrical film in Memphis history, *The Contemporary Gladiator*. This was not a documentary. This was not a student project. This was a full-scale, 35mm theatrical motion picture—written, produced, directed, and starring a Black Buddhist. That alone is historic. But Elmore didn't stop there.
*The Contemporary Gladiator* is the **first kickboxing film in world cinema history**. It is the **first 35mm theatrical biopic of an American Buddhist ever produced**. It is the **first Buddhist film in world history to center a Black man's spiritual journey**. This is not just Memphis history. This is **world film history**.
And it was made not with Hollywood's blessing, but with Elmore's own blood, sweat, and sacrifice. He mortgaged his home. He risked everything. He told his story—not as a side character in someone else's narrative, but as the author of his own enlightenment.
This is what Black Buddhism looks like: faith forged in fire, courage carved from struggle, and pride rooted in truth. Half the cast of *The Contemporary Gladiator* were practicing Buddhists, many from the NSA/SGI community. But unlike others, Elmore didn't just chant—he created. He didn't just follow—he led.
In the world of boxing, only legends like Jack Johnson, Muhammad Ali, Mike Tyson, and George Foreman have biopics. But **Anthony "Amp" Elmore is the only world kickboxing champion in history with a biopic—and the only one to tell his story through the lens of Buddhism.**
In 1990, Elmore's film played in Kenya, marking the **first trade deal between an African American and an African government**. He met with the late Kenya President Daniel Arap Moi, who named him a **Cultural Ambassador**. Elmore introduced kickboxing to Kenya, hosted African dignitaries in his Memphis home, and met with ambassadors from Ghana, South Africa, and Kenya. In 2006, he built the **first All-African home in America**, importing authentic furnishings from Ghana to create a living monument to Pan-African pride.
Elmore's legacy is not confined to the screen or the ring. He is the **first person to document Buddhist practice at the Nichiren Shoshu Temple**, the **official videographer in Ghana**, and the **founder of the Proud Black Buddhist website in 1998**—long before "diversity" became a buzzword. He created the **Black Memphis History website**, preserving the stories others tried to erase. He has delivered more Buddhist lectures on YouTube than any other Buddhist in America—**over 1,000 videos**, more than all other Black Buddhist leaders combined.
He is a **five-time world kickboxing champion**, a filmmaker, a philosopher, a historian, a cultural diplomat, and a spiritual warrior. He is not a follower of Asian Buddhist sects—he is the founder of a **Black Buddhist sect**, rooted in the teachings of Nichiren Daishonin but expressed through the lived experience, music, and history of Black people. He has written more on Black Buddhism than any other figure in history. He has composed over 28 original Black Buddhist songs. He has built a canon, a culture, and a community.
Let the world be clear: **Black practicing Buddhism is participation. Black Buddhism is power.** And Anthony "Amp" Elmore is the power behind the movement. He is not just a Black Buddhist—he is the **Father of Black Buddhism**, and his legacy is not just spiritual—it is historical, cultural, cinematic, and global.
This is not a borrowed tradition. This is not a seat at someone else's table. This is a temple built by Black hands, with Black bricks, on Black soil. This is Black Buddhism. And the world will remember who built it.
Anthony "Amp" Elmore's legacy as a filmmaker, historian, recording artist, and cultural ambassador stands as a living monument to Black Buddhist philosophy—an expansive vision that reframes enlightenment as education and cultural empowerment. His body of work, including websites, press releases, music, and over a thousand videos, forms a digital archive that reclaims the African roots of Buddhism and positions Black identity at the heart of global spiritual history.
Elmore's teachings illuminate the historical connections between Cush, Nubia, Ancient Egypt, and Ancient India, asserting that the Cushites—referenced in the Bible—are the same people as the Dalits of modern India. This lineage, supported by scholars like Godfrey Higgins and Herodotus, traces the cradle of Buddhist thought to Meroë, the capital of Nubia, and identifies the Gymnosophists (early Buddhist ascetics) as Cushite sages. Elmore's 1988 film *The Contemporary Gladiator*, which premiered in Nairobi in 1990 to a hero's welcome, became a vehicle for cultural diplomacy.
His introduction of kickboxing to Kenya and his meeting with the late President Daniel Arap Moi marked a historic moment of African-American and African unity. Though no longer married, Elmore's union with a Kenyan woman produced a son, Anthony "Amp" Elmore Jr., who now joins him in bridging African and African-American communities through cultural ambassadorship.
The film, retitled *Kickbox Gladiator* and dubbed in German in 1989, transcends entertainment—it is a multilingual educational tool that teaches not only kickboxing but also the principles of Buddhism and Black empowerment. Its subtitled promotion in Asia further underscores its global reach.
As a biopic rooted in Memphis and voiced in German, the film offers a unique opportunity to teach language, history, and spiritual philosophy through the lens of Black experience. Elmore's work redefines Black Buddhism as everyday life, cultural pride, and historical truth—an enlightenment that begins with education and ends in global unity.
On May 19, 2025, Anthony "Amp" Elmore filed a landmark federal civil rights lawsuit—*Elmore v. City of Memphis, Tennessee in the U.S. District Court for the Western District of Tennessee. The suit names over 20 defendants, including the City of Memphis, Shelby County, elected officials, tourism leaders, and cultural institutions.
Elmore, a five-time world kickboxing champion, pioneering filmmaker, and self-declared Black Memphis History Curator, alleges systemic discrimination, cultural erasure, and neglect of Black Memphis history—particularly the true origins of Orange Mound. The complaint demands recognition of his 1988 film *The Contemporary Gladiator* as Memphis's first independent 35mm theatrical film and the first kickboxing film in world history. It also calls for the creation of a Black Memphis History Museum, youth programs, and transparency in public arts funding.
This lawsuit is not just a legal action—it's a cultural reckoning. It seeks to correct the historical record, challenge institutional bias, and elevate the legacy of Black Memphis on national and international stages.
Click here to read the lawsuit whereas Anthony "Amp" Elmore fights for Education and a Black Memphis history Museum.
Anthony "Amp" Elmore is taking his fight to UNESCO. The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO is a specialized agency of the United Nations (UN) with the aim of promoting world peace and security through international cooperation in education, arts, sciences and culture.
In 1988, Anthony "Amp" Elmore unknowingly etched his name into Memphis history. After completing his groundbreaking film *The Contemporary Gladiator*, Elmore approached the Malco Theatre chain—founded in 1915—to screen his Black Memphis-made movie. The screening took place at the Malco Highland Quartet, where a single gentleman sat quietly in the back, visibly astounded by the 1-hour-and-36-minute film. That man was Steve Lightman, owner of Malco Theatres. What Elmore didn't realize at the time was that he had become the first Memphian ever to produce and screen an independent 35mm theatrical film in the city's history.
The film played at both the Highland Quartet and the now-closed Twin Drive-In on 3rd Street, sharing a marquee with *Coming to America*. Elmore's courage to create and screen his film meant going up against cinematic giants like Spike Lee's *School Daze* and Eddie Murphy's *Coming to America*—without institutional support, recognition, or a fair shot.
His film was sabotaged and erased from Memphis film history, yet today, in November 2025, his legacy stands undeniable but untold in Memphis. Anthony "Amp" Elmore is not only the first Black independent filmmaker in Memphis—he is Memphis's first independent 35mm Theatrical filmmaker, period.
About Us
"If Lions were historians, hunters would no longer be heroes." This powerful African proverb encapsulates the mission of the Orange Mound News Network (OMNN). Founded by Anthony Amp Elmore, OMNN aims to reclaim and reshape the narrative of Orange Mound through the power of filmmaking, education, and content creation. Our goal is to challenge the negative stereotypes and biased portrayals that have long plagued our community, creating a positive space for family, Black culture, history, and education.
Our Journey and Mission
Orange Mound, established as the first community in America built for Blacks by Blacks, has a rich history often overshadowed by negative stereotypes. Mainstream media and societal biases have painted Orange Mound as a "ghetto," contributing to a 30% decline in property values while surrounding communities have prospered. The Orange Mound News Network was created to counter this narrative and highlight the true spirit and resilience of our community.
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