royce gracie rank

i was just watching some old fights on spike. didn't know that @ ufc 3, royce was already a 4th degree bb. he got the bb at age of 18. he was 28 when he fought in ufc 3. how long does it take to move up in rank at the bb level? is there a time standard? just curious. to go from a new bb to a 4th degree in 10 years seems pretty fast.

The rules dont apply to you if your a Gracie. Ryron is already a 5th degree at 28 years old after having his black belt for only 7 years. 1st - 3rd degrees are at least 3 years each. 4th - 6th degrees are at least 5 years each.