Thank you professor!

A 4th‑dan Aikido practitioner and a 2nd‑degree Judo black belt isn’t starting BJJ as a beginner. They already have decades of grappling, balance, posture, joint‑lock mechanics, and live sparring experience. Judo black belts in particular often enter BJJ already performing at blue or purple belt level in takedowns, top control, and transitions. The ‘two‑year minimum’ at blue is a IBJJF guideline, not a rule, instructors promote based on skill, not time. When someone with 20+ years of high‑level martial arts experience adapts to BJJ quickly, it’s not an extraordinary claim; it’s exactly what you’d expect from an athlete with that background.

Why don't you ask Michale and Butch? They promoted him and you voted for them...

He is just a salty guy, no worries gents. I’ve known his type over the 32+ years I’ve been on the mats. As always, I trust my teachers and seniors to decide when it’s time. No self respecting student should ask/discuss their rank with their teacher - just train, focus on helping those who are coming up behind you, and be a good/safe training partner. We are in this for life and mainly for the day to day training and time spent together on the mat. I hope we never forget this truth and this shared love and respect we should have for this discipline and for each other. See you on the mats my friends!

Thank you professor! All credit to you for creating and cultivating the amazing dojo and community we have. Such a gift to have a share this practice with so many.

Thank you Professor Butch!

Thank you sir!

Thank you sir! Such a gift having you at the dojo!

Thank you sir! Hope to see you on the mats some day!

Thank you sir! I hope we can roll one day! :)