Advanced Belt Progression in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu: From Black Belt to Red

At Stockman Jiu-Jitsu, we're always celebrating milestones that reflect the hard work and passion of our community. Recently, our head instructor, Alan Stockman, earned his well-deserved 4th degree on his black belt—a testament to his years of dedication and leadership.

We're also proud to congratulate Brandon and Marco on their promotions to black belt, marking the start of their own advanced journeys in BJJ. These achievements inspired us to explore the path beyond black belt, focusing on the degrees and higher ranks as outlined by the International Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Federation (IBJJF).

Marco

Brandon

In our previous post on how Jiu-Jitsu belt progression works for adults and kids, we covered the foundational belts from white to black. Now, let's dive into the advanced stages: the degrees on the black belt, the coral belts, and the prestigious red belt. These ranks emphasize not just technical skill but also teaching, contribution to the art, and lifelong commitment. All details here are based on current IBJJF guidelines, which set the standard for BJJ progression worldwide.

The Black Belt: Where Mastery Begins

Earning a black belt is a monumental achievement, often taking 8-15 years of consistent training. But in BJJ, the black belt isn't the finish line—it's where the real refinement happens. Black belts receive "degrees" (also called stripes) that recognize further growth, teaching experience, and time invested in the art.

Professor Alan Stockman, head instructor at Stockman Jiu-Jitsu, was awarded his 4th stripe on his black belt by Carlson Gracie Jr. during our seminar on June 19th, 2025

According to IBJJF rules, black belt degrees have strict minimum time requirements, calculated from the date of black belt promotion. These ensure practitioners have ample opportunity to deepen their knowledge and mentor others:

• 0 to 1st Degree: Minimum of 3 years as a black belt.

• 1st to 2nd Degree: Additional 3 years (total 6 years as black belt).

• 2nd to 3rd Degree: Additional 3 years (total 9 years as black belt).

• 3rd to 4th Degree: Additional 5 years (total 14 years as black belt).

• 4th to 5th Degree: Additional 5 years (total 19 years as black belt).

• 5th to 6th Degree: Additional 5 years (total 24 years as black belt).

  
  

These degrees are represented by white stripes on the black belt's bar (the solid black end). Promotions at this level consider not only mat time but also contributions like coaching and competing. Alan's recent 4th degree, for example, comes after over a decade of black belt experience, during which he's built our academy and guided countless students.

The Coral Belts: Symbols of Expertise and Legacy

Once a practitioner reaches the 6th degree black belt, the next ranks introduce new belt colors known as "coral belts." These are reserved for those who've dedicated decades to BJJ, often as instructors and ambassadors of the sport.

• 7th Degree: Red/Black Coral Belt – Awarded after a minimum of 7 years as a 6th degree black belt (total at least 31 years as a black belt). This belt features alternating red and black sections, signifying a grandmaster-level instructor who's actively teaching and evolving the art.

  
  

• 8th Degree: Red/White Coral Belt – Requires an additional 10 years as a 7th degree red/black belt (total at least 41 years as a black belt). The belt alternates red and white, honoring those with profound influence on BJJ globally.

  
  

  A powerful moment—Coral belt Carlson Gracie Jr. giving a heartfelt speech during Professor Alan’s promotion.

  
  

Coral belts are rare and typically held by pioneers who've shaped BJJ's history. They must continue teaching and contributing to earn these promotions, as per IBJJF standards.

The Red Belt: The Pinnacle of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu

The red belt represents the absolute highest honor in BJJ, reserved for legends whose impact transcends the mats. It's not just about time—it's about fame, influence, and elevating the art to new heights. Red belts are addressed as "grandmasters" and are extremely scarce.

• 9th Degree Red Belt: Eligible after a minimum age of 67, calculated from the black belt start date. This typically requires at least 48 years as a black belt (e.g., if promoted to black at age 19, eligible at 67)

  
  

• 10th Degree Red Belt: Requires an additional 9 years as a 9th degree, with a minimum age of 76.

  
  

Famous red belts include figures like the Gracie family patriarchs. The IBJJF emphasizes that red belts are "for those whose influence and fame takes them to the pinnacle of the art."

Alan Stockman trained with 9th-degree red belt Fernando Pinduka during our 2024 Rio Jiu-Jitsu Camp.

How This Applies at Stockman Jiu-Jitsu

At our academy, we adhere closely to IBJJF guidelines to ensure fair, meaningful progressions. Alan's 4th degree and the new black belts for Brandon and Marco are perfect examples of this system in action. We track attendance, technical mastery, and attitude, just as we do for lower belts. For advanced practitioners, we also value leadership—whether it's assisting in classes or competing to represent our team.

If you're a black belt or aspiring to reach these heights, remember that progression is about consistent effort and giving back to the community. Our programs support you every step of the way, from fundamentals to advanced training.

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Keep Rolling: Your Journey Awaits

The path from black belt to red is a lifelong adventure, rewarding those who stay committed to growth and teaching. Congratulations again to Alan, Brandon, and Marco—their accomplishments inspire us all. Whether you're just starting or eyeing your next degree, Stockman Jiu-Jitsu is here to help you progress.

Ready to advance your BJJ journey? Join our adult or kids' programs today and experience the transformative power of Jiu-Jitsu. Get your FREE 7-DAY pass —we can't wait to see you on the mats!