For countless small business operators, 2020 has proven to be the most challenging year on record.
Through this difficult period, Kingdom MMA co-owner and Canadian lightweight competitor Craig Shintani (9-3) has been pushing forward to keep operations running on Edmonton's south side, where the gym has been based since its founding in 2016.
As circumstances unfold, Shintani, 29, is focused on staying optimistic and finding ways to inspire and encourage his gym's community.
"It's never simple, but we can't just wallow in despair. Everyone is facing challenges, and many businesses lack the member-based support structure that gyms provide—they're just waiting for customers to walk through the door. Many people are dealing with far worse situations than we are, so overall it's a rough time," Shintani shared in a conversation with MMA Empire.
"Staying connected with our members and friends has always been important to us. We've built meaningful relationships within our gym community, and we value everyone who trains with us. When closures happen and we hear from members wanting to stay active, it drives us to create content online. We'll keep producing material and do what we can to help people navigate these challenging periods."
Shintani acknowledged that the gym's survival through lockdown would have been impossible without the backing of its members.
"We essentially survived the lockdown thanks to the generosity of our members, and fortunately, we have wonderful supporters," Shintani explained.
"They've kept us afloat and made everything more manageable, though things remain tight at the moment."
While the government introduced several programs designed to assist small businesses, navigating the application process hasn't always been straightforward given the sheer number of small businesses across the province.
"Honestly, there wasn't much available. A few options emerged during the initial lockdown, but they were surprisingly difficult to access," Shintani noted.
"During the first wave, we could apply for assistance through our landlord, but approval was required from them. Many landlords refused to approve requests, and unfortunately, our previous landlord wasn't willing to work with us, so we received no assistance during those early lockdowns. This round, we're exploring different options. Our current landlord has been much more cooperative, so we'll see how things progress."
A New Chapter for Kingdom MMA
With the gym shut down and limited activities available during the first lockdown, Shintani and Kingdom MMA co-owner Aaron Kapiczowski saw an opportunity to search for a permanent location.
"We finally located a building for a long-term arrangement, so the timing seemed ideal since there wasn't much else we could do. The restrictions extended the process beyond normal timelines, but we completed the move," Shintani said.
"Previously, we operated under sub-leases, but we always remained in the same general area. Serving the south side of the city has always been our goal."
In just a few years, Kingdom MMA has emerged as one of Alberta's premier training facilities.
Shintani emphasized the importance of continuing to strengthen their reputation across Edmonton and Alberta while nurturing emerging fighters.
"Our goal is to maintain a strong presence, represent Edmonton positively, and develop promising talent. We hope to sustain that momentum," Shintani said.
"Above all, what matters most to us—beyond finances—is preventing anyone from giving up. Whether someone trains competitively or recreationally, it would be devastating to reopen and find those individuals gone. Everyone who supports the gym, whether by reaching out with encouragement or showing solidarity during difficult times, makes a real difference. We're deeply grateful to everyone who has stood by us."
On top of managing a small business, Shintani faces another challenge: finding fight opportunities in Canada during the pandemic has become nearly impossible.
Shintani pointed out that no assistance exists for fighters in his position.
"I personally don't qualify for anything since self-employed individuals often end up in worse positions than most people," Shintani observed.
"I'm relying on my savings to get through. If needed, I'd take on temporary work, but that's no simple solution. Unfortunately, martial arts gyms don't offer high compensation compared to other fields, and fighting professionally adds even less income. Living frugally has definitely served me well in this situation."
