Jimmy Blann has been named the next honoree in Southaven’s Tribute Hall, according to an announcement by the City of Southaven. The announcement identified Blann as “The Jet” and described him as being from Southaven, Mississippi.
Blann opened his first karate school at Millbranch/Town & Country on July 1, 1980. On May 16, 1987, he challenged for the Karate International Council of Kickboxing World Championship but lost by a distance decision. He received a rematch on Sept. 26, 1987, and won the bout to become the K.I.C.K. World Welterweight Champion.
Blann unsuccessfully defended the title in Kamloops, British Columbia, in 1988. He recaptured the world title in a rematch in Southaven on Dec. 9, 1989, and retired in March 1990, according to the city’s announcement.
The announcement also said BMA has produced eight world champions in various divisions, 200 national champions and 409 black belts.
