Two Masters, One Creative Spirit

Though their mediums were different, LeRoy Neiman and Dave Schultz shared the same qualities: depth, humility, generosity of spirit, and complete presence in every moment.

Neiman captured life in vivid color, expressing sport with energy, vitality, and drama. Schultz brought that same artistry to the mat, approaching wrestling as a form of creation—precision paired with instinct, mastery paired with imagination.

At their core, both believed in the same truth: sport is creation, and creation is what endures.

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Dave Schultz: The Mat Artist

Dave Schultz and LeRoy Neiman were kindred spirits, masters of technique, humble in character, and generous with their attention and time.

Their legacies share that luminous quality. This collaboration reflects that lineage: a celebration of their artistry and the enduring stories they left behind.

A Full-Circle Moment

Nearly thirty years ago, LeRoy Neiman honored Dave Schultz through his artwork. Today, RUDIS honors them both, artist and athlete, through a collection rooted in legacy, creativity, and the Olympic spirit.

“To see Dave’s name and story carried forward in a way that also celebrates LeRoy’s legacy feels full circle,” said Nancy Schultz, Global Wrestling Advocate and RUDIS Partner. “Both men were creators in their own right, Leroy with his brush, Dave on the mat. I’m honored to help ensure their impact on sport and art lives on.”

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The Mat & Beyond

In addition to the LeRoy Neiman x Dave Schultz line, the collection will include select Muhammad Ali x Neiman apparel pieces, honoring another of Neiman’s most iconic subjects and extending the celebration of sport, artistry, and expression that shaped his body of work.