Believe in Yourself
Earn Your Rank
the MMJJ Way
Train with intention. Step on the mat with clarity.
Learn how MMJJ belt promotion evaluations work so students and coaches know what to expect on evaluation day.
Register only after your instructor has recommended you for this rank.
Why an evaluation fee exists
Investment that protects the standard
This evaluation exists for students whose academy has no professor to promote them, and for academy owners who cannot promote themselves. It is a formal evaluation, not a casual promotion day. The fee pays the evaluators for their time and helps cover the cost of staging the event, so the standard holds wherever you train.
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Evaluator time & preparation
Certified evaluators review criteria, coordinate logistics, and document results. The fee compensates for focused professional time dedicated to each evaluation group.
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Your belt, and the record behind it
Successful candidates receive formal recognition aligned with MMJJ standards. The fee covers the MMJJ colored belt itself, certificates, rank processing, and accurate record-keeping.
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Protecting the value of your rank
A formal evaluation reinforces that each rank is earned, not given. This maintains the credibility of MMJJ ranks for students and instructors worldwide.
Who should be evaluated
This evaluation is for students who are ready, not curious
Registration should only be completed after your instructor has confirmed that you meet the attendance, technical, and attitude standards for your next rank. If you are unsure whether you should be evaluated, speak with your instructor before submitting this form.
- You have been directly invited to be evaluated by a MMJJ-approved instructor.
- You consistently demonstrate the techniques, concepts, and control required for your current curriculum level.
- You meet your school’s minimum attendance and mat time expectations for promotion.
- You understand that this is an evaluation, and the outcome may be ready or not ready.
- Students are aligned on the commitment to training beyond the evaluation date.
Before you register
Instructor confirmation comes first
This registration page assumes your instructor has already recommended you for evaluation. They are responsible for confirming that:
- You have the technical foundation required for this rank.
- You demonstrate appropriate mat etiquette, discipline, and coachability.
- You have met or are close to meeting the required training hours.
- Any prior injuries or limitations have been communicated and considered.
How the evaluation works
Clear, structured evaluation process
Our promotions follow the Official MMJJ Testing Sheet. You’ll be evaluated in three core areas.
- 01
Flow Roll: The Art in Motion
- Show smooth, controlled transitions, escapes, and attacks.
- Demonstrate “catch and release” submissions that prove both technical skill and training partner safety.
- Demonstrate your cardio. Conditioning is part of what the evaluators are watching here.
- 02
Techniques: Precision Under Pressure
- Perform all required positions and techniques for your rank on a compliant partner.
- These requirements are listed in Section 2 of your Official MMJJ Testing Sheet.
- 03
Live Rolling: The Decider
- Up to 3 rounds of live sparring.
- Promotion requires 2 “Ready” votes from 2 different evaluators.
- If you receive a “Not Ready” from one of the first 2, you must gain approval from the third evaluator to earn promotion.
Professor evaluations
What it means to earn the title of Professor
Not every black belt is a professor. Within the Machado Method Jiu-Jitsu (MMJJ) Association, the title of Professor is reserved for black belts who have completed a formal evaluation and earned their two instructor tips.
Master Carlos explains the distinction, the eligibility requirements, and exactly what the evaluation covers. Topics include student selection, technique appropriateness, professional communication, and active coaching presence.
If you have been invited to pursue professor status, watch this before you register.
Eligibility requirements
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6 months active MMJJ membership
Current on dues with no disciplinary matters outstanding.
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Minimum 2 classes taught per week
Must be actively teaching on a consistent, ongoing basis.
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2 years teaching experience or 208 documented classes
Formal teaching history is required. Training history alone does not qualify.
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Good standing
Current on dues with no open disciplinary issues.
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Direct invitation required
This evaluation is not open registration. Candidates must be directly invited by a MMJJ-approved instructor before submitting their registration.
Evaluation outcomes
Rank is earned through performance, not attendance alone
The evaluation is an honest assessment. Results reflect what is demonstrated on the mat that day, combined with the student’s overall training history and readiness.
Possible outcomes
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Ready
The student meets the standard for the new rank, and the promotion is awarded.
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Not Ready
The rank is not awarded this time. The student leaves with clear feedback on exactly what to work on before the next evaluation.
What students can expect
- Respectful, professional conduct from evaluators and staff.
- Clear instructions before, during, and after the evaluation.
- Feedback focused on growth, not comparison with other students.
- Recognition that a “Not Ready” is a step in development, not a verdict on the student.
In all cases, the priority is development and long-term progression, not rushing through ranks.
Common evaluation mistakes
Avoid these errors before you step on the mat
Students can reduce stress and support a successful experience by understanding the most frequent issues evaluators see.
- 01
Inadequate preparation
Relying on natural ability instead of consistent drilling of the curriculum. Students should review techniques and sequences with intention in the weeks leading up to the evaluation.
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Misunderstanding the standard
Treating the evaluation as a formality instead of a standard. Students should know that evaluators are looking for control, understanding, composure, and repeatable skill, not just effort.
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Rank is earned over time, not chased
Prioritizing rank over learning. The healthiest approach is to view the evaluation as a checkpoint in a long journey, not a deadline that must be met at any cost.
Rank evaluation registration
Complete your registration with accurate details
Use the form to submit the student’s information and evaluation fee. Double-check spelling, current rank, and academy details. This data feeds directly into MMJJ evaluation records.
- Professor Evaluation $100
- Black Belt & Degree $100
- All Other Belts $75
Note: Registration is not a guarantee of promotion. It confirms participation in the evaluation under MMJJ standards.
On the day: It is your responsibility to be in the training room at the beginning of your scheduled time and to find Professor Eddie Avelar to confirm you are present and ready to be evaluated. Missing that check-in may result in forfeiting your opportunity to be evaluated.
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