InnerCity Martial Arts

Norman Valdez (netcombatant)

I joined InnerCity MMA in early 2016, I now have 1 year and I now more confident than ever about my decision to join. I am usually the overly careful type about what I want to commit and I did explore at first a few other gyms before I decided to stay at ICMMA, you too would see what sets this dojo apart, the environment has this cozy feel, and this is not because of the size of the physical space, but because of the amical space that is created thanks to the vast experience of Prof. Shah and Tushara. The experience really does show and proves Prof. Shah as the grandfather of MMA in Ontario as a known coach of a number of fighters and athletes, which you can clearly see as classes in are ran with full of smiles while you are almost inevitably getting an excellent workout. The atmosphere is largely of respect for one another, a core tenet of martial arts, there you get a sense of camaraderie and as a newbie I felt I was helped not just by the Professor, but by higher belts. In short, you are lucky to come across this gym. The dojo now offers classes for children, if you ever witness a class by the dojo’s Happy Children stream of classes you will see nothing but a basket full of non-stop laughing, which is very much at par with the fun the adult classes also enjoy.

Ryan Wycherley

I joined InnerCity a year ago after a 4-5 year hiatus from BJJ. I joined because I loved the sport, but I stayed because of the atmosphere and the quality of the instruction. Quite simply, Professor Shah is unparalleled in his knowledge of martial arts. He embraces the traditional self-defence aspect of jiu-jitsu, while also teaching the "sport" elements to those interested in competing. Though I have not yet partaken in the kickboxing classes, his competition record speaks for itself and his footwork is simply mesmerizing. As someone who was new to the city, I was happy to find a home at Innercity and have made some incredible friends and training partners here. Between the people, the quality of instruction and the central location, Innercity has everything you're looking for in a martial arts dojo. There are no egos here, so drop in for a trial class and prepare to be hooked!

roya sarwary

If you’re looking to get back into shape, find a new hobby (Kickboxing, Karate, BJJ, Boxing) or learn self-defense then Innercity MMA has it all and more! I love the fact that this dojo has a warm, welcoming and friendly environment starting from the Instructor (s) to the students! I feel like this is my 2nd home!!! Prof. Shah Franco (who is a 4th degree black belt) breaks down the most complex moves in BJJ, Judo, Karate & MMA into simple, easy learnable steps for beginner & advanced students. For me personally, this has been a very memorable journey! Thank you Prof. Shah, you are one of a kind!!!

Franz Marie Gumabay

I wanted to learn self-defence over the summer and decided to take up Brazilian Jiu Jitsu and kickboxing. After visiting and trying out several martial arts dojo in Toronto, I chose InnerCity MMA because of the positive atmosphere, the downtown location, and the bargain price. InnerCity MMA provides a warm, nurturing, ego-free, fun, and friendly training environment. Professor Franco is an extremely experienced and tremendously knowledgeable martial arts practitioner. His style of teaching is conducive to both beginner and experienced martial artists. If you’re looking to get into shape, learn self-defence, pick up a new hobby, or simply just a martial arts enthusiast, I recommend that you check out InnerCity MMA!

Mark Hammond

I have been attending classes for over a month now. The professor's are really great at working with me as a beginner. The gym has a great atmosphere, everyone helps each other get better and develop skills. They were very welcoming to new members.

Brad Taylor

I've trained Brazillian Jiu Jitsu at a number of gyms and I've found Professor Shah Franco to be a kind, generous teacher who takes the time to ensure you learn the art, rather than just briskly showing move after move. I find his approach is the best for learning (especially for beginners) and the social atmosphere at Innercity MMA is welcoming and engaging. It's no surprise that he is well known as a pioneer of BJJ and MMA across Ontario.

Hiro Sato

I've been to good gyms before but ICMMA stands out. Its a really positive environment and a great entry into martial arts. Fellow students are helpful and easy to get along with. Professor Franco knows a lot about martial arts - to a deep, functional level. His resume, so to speak, is very, very impressive. I only have good things to say about his teaching style and classes. Speaking as an mma geek, its quite the opportunity (and honor) to train there. Check it out!

Ganmo Tabiman

I just received my copies of Professor Franco's new book Art Suave. I am very impressed with the quality of the book. The self defence material taught by Master Behring and Professor Franco is formatted in a step by step breakdown of each technique which makes it a great guide for both beginners and instructors. There has already been a growing interest for the book here on the West Coast with several different academies in Vancouver and Victoria requesting copies. The low profile and light weight makes it very easy to pack with my gi for training sessions or slip into a backpack for a trip to the beach. This book is highly recommended

Josh Sved

InnerCity MMA is the best martial arts dojo that Toronto has to offer, PERIOD! Professor Shah Franco is incredibly knowledgeable, approachable, thorough, but above all friendly. Through years of experience in a variety of disciplines Professor Franco has distinguished himself within the martial arts community, and it shows in his approach to instruction. Whether you are an absolute beginner or have experience in martial arts you will benefit from the way techniques are broken down and basics are emphasized. Every class is a thoroughly fun and enjoyable experience, and this is due to the group that has gravitated around Professor Franco. Amid an atmosphere of healthy competition, everyone at the gym is incredible friendly and helpful. No egos, and no bullshit! The friendships I have built at the gym, and the support they provide, both on and off the mats, are invaluable. If you're interested in gaining experience in BJJ, Judo, Karate, Kickboxing, Boxing, or just looking to get physical active in a fun and exciting way, InnerCity is undoubtedly the place for you. The only question is, what are you waiting for?

George Li

Started looking for a place to train BJJ over the summer, and visited almost every gym downtown that offered it - ended up choosing InnerCity MMA because of how welcome I felt during my first lesson. Been training here almost every day for 5 months now, and I still love going everyday. Professor Franco and Tushara are both great, and they work hard to have the gym be an extremely friendly environment for both beginners and experienced students. As someone with no previous martial arts experience, Prof. Franco as well as the other students made learning BJJ both fun and accessible for me. I feel comfortable asking everyone in the gym for help when I need it, and Prof. Franco's knowledge of the art is unparalleled. I would say his style of teaching incorporates both modern and traditional elements, and he has an excellent understanding of both self-defense and sport-oriented BJJ.