I once had a student demand that I promote him to Black Belt. He had not completed the necessary requirements, so I refused. He found someone who I had de-ranked from Black Belt and got them to promote him to Black Belt. Yes, you read that correctly.
I can’t tell you the number of people I’ve had who have gone to other schools after moving away, have been evaluated and ranked in the new system and even though they were not Black Belts in our system yet, once evaluated, were awarded a Black Belt in the new system. Our standards are high, very high. But it doesn’t mean you are a Black Belt until you earn it.
For those who have found some supposed 10th degree Black Belt who is going to award you a Black Belt today, testing you on material he doesn’t even know…congratulations. You did not earn it and you’ve 100% missed the point.
It is about the journey. Or it is supposed to be. If all you wanted was the Black Belt, you should have just called Century or bought one on Amazon.
For those of you who have earned a Black Belt in our system. Recognize your incredible accomplishment. Be proud of what you have done. It is so incredible, others will lie to try to be like you. They are being disrespectful, but in a way, it is flattering. It is a pity they didn’t do what you have done, but not everyone has what it takes.
Anyone can wear a Black Belt. Not everyone can become the person required to earn one. The belt is cloth. The character, discipline, perseverance, and skill behind it are what matter. Those cannot be bought, borrowed, or given away.