← Back to martial art

General overview of grades

This ladder is not yet attributed to a specific organisation. Federations differ in belt colours and time requirements.

Fu Jow Pai (Tiger Claw System), popularized by Wong Moon-Toy in 20th-century New York with Shaolin roots (Hark Fu Moon), is a fierce Chinese style focused on claw tearing and ripping. The Duanwei rank system (1st to 6th Duan) evaluates tiger claw palm conditioning, face/throat ripping techniques, and traditional forms.

1st Duan – Green Level

Typical gap since previous grade: 6 monthsestimate

Requirements & Focus

Basic Mabu stance, Fu Jow tiger claw conditioning, and first Hark Fu Kuen form.

Symbolism & Meaning

Southern Chinese Tiger Claw style founded by Wong Bil Hong and Wong Moon Toy.

2nd Duan – Blue Level

Typical gap since previous grade: 12 monthsestimate

Requirements & Focus

Tendon tearing, close-range joint locking, and advanced Fu Jow Kuen set.

Symbolism & Meaning

Crushing tiger strike power integrated into fierce self-defense.

3rd Duan – Silver Level

Typical gap since previous grade: 18 monthsestimate

Requirements & Focus

Seung Tau Kwan staff training, Gim straight sword, and paired weapon drills.

Symbolism & Meaning

Transferring tiger claw ferocity into traditional Chinese weapons.

4th Duan – Black Level

Typical gap since previous grade: 24 monthsestimate

Requirements & Focus

Tiger & Crane set, uncompromising Chin Na locks, and full-contact Sanda sparring.

Symbolism & Meaning

High level of combat maturity in traditional and sports Chinese wushu.

5th Duan – Gold Level (Sifu)

Typical gap since previous grade: 36 monthsestimate

Requirements & Focus

Awarding Sifu title. Running Kwoon and representing Wai Hong lineage.

Symbolism & Meaning

Sifu = Certified teacher and guarantor of Tiger Claw tradition purity.

6th Duan – Gold Dragon (Grandmaster)

Typical gap since previous grade: 60 monthsestimate

Requirements & Focus

Highest achievable rank. Living legend and supreme Fu Jow Pai grandmaster.

Symbolism & Meaning

Grandmaster = Direct guardian and bearer of Grandmaster Wai Hong's legacy.