I’m stingy with belt promotions. The dyed piece of cotton that is tied around my waist everyday means something very special to me and I want it to mean something to my students. Every year I see the martial art and sport that sucked me in 11 years ago get watered down. It’s painful and frustrates me. The belt that rests on my waist is a representation of years of constant effort, sacrifice and training, and to see someone receive a high level belt haphazardly is an insult me, and to everyone whose worked so hard to wear those colors. I suppose this is just the inevitable evolution right? People sell out belts for money and allow people to receive undeserved promotions just to keep them in an affiliation or to keep them paying their gym dues. Well I refuse to join in on this unfortunate trend.

Last night I had the privilege of promoting 4 of my students (Thomas Jones, Akiya Johnson, Kevan Avery and Peter Wang). These men have paid their dues and are worthy of wearing their new belts. I’m proud of all of them as they each have faced unique obstacles along the way. Enjoy the new journey that awaits you.

Remember guys. You don’t have to hand out belts to have strong and well developed BJJ program. You just have to train hard, be dedicated and most importantly, be genuine. Let your Jiu-jitsu speak for itself. Don’t be a sell out.