Bill Packer

10th Degree Black Belt

Senior Master of the Arts

Founder of the American Kenpo Karate Association

(1946 – 2005)

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Before finding his true path in Kenpo, Bill Packer built an exceptionally strong foundation in the martial arts. He trained extensively in Okinawan-Te, Wing Chun, Tai Chi, and — most notably — Boxing.

From 1964 to 1968, Mr. Packer was a standout member of the United States Coast Guard Boxing Team, where he compiled an undefeated record with over 30 wins. These early years gave him a deep understanding of mindset, pressing an opponent, physical conditioning, and combat fundamentals that would serve him throughout his career.

After his military service, Mr. Packer committed himself fully to American Kenpo under the guidance of Mr. Tom Connor. By 1971, his skill, drive, and leadership had earned him the role of Southwest Regional Director for TRACO International. While he admired Kenpo’s powerful physical techniques, he recognized the need for deeper philosophical and traditional elements.

In 1972, he restructured the Southwest region into the American Kenpo Karate Association, Ltd. (AKKA). Under his leadership, the system evolved by returning to its Chinese Ch’uan Fa roots. Mr. Packer meticulously researched the historical, philosophical, and symbolic meaning of the animals, elements, and colors in Kenpo, integrating them by belt rank. He even brought in a distinguished professor of Chinese philosophy to teach instructors.

At the same time, he built a powerhouse kickboxing program. After watching the first World Karate Association (WKA) Championships, Mr. Packer saw the potential to combine Kenpo’s mental and physical training with competitive combat. From its founding in 1974, AKKA Kickboxing became a dominant force on the world stage:

• 128 World Ranked Fighters

• 15 World Titles

• 8 North American Titles

• 8 U.S. Titles

• 3 Intercontinental Muay Thai Titles

• Mr. Packer himself was a 7-time Regional Karate Champion

• Named 1982 Kickboxing Trainer of the Year

• Premier Inductee into the Martial Arts Hall of Fame

In 1978, AKKA and TRACO merged and continued to grow. After Mr. Connor’s passing in 1989, all schools unanimously adopted the AKKA name and the iconic “Dragonman” logo.

Throughout his life, Bill Packer remained the ultimate authority on the distinctive AKKA style of American Kenpo. As President of AKKA, Ltd., he never stopped researching, refining, and evolving the system.

The American Institute of Kenpo is deeply grateful for Mr. Packer’s extraordinary mentorship, leadership, and lasting contributions to the art.

~ Last Updated 5/16/2026