A fire tore through a well-respected mixed-martial arts gym in Astoria last week. Now, the martial arts community is rallying around the business to help rebuild it from the ground up, donating tens of thousands of dollars in just a few days. 

On Tuesday morning, though, an empty storefront is all that’s left of Sitan Muay Thai Gym.

“I didn’t even know what to do the next day. Because I actually spend most of my time here, I actually spend more time in the gym than my own house,” said Aziz Nabih, the owner of the gym. 

For the past 27 years, the gym has been Nabih's home away from home. The feeling is mutual for his clients — like 10 year-old Peter Anagnostidis, who has been training here for half his young life.

“I was very sad because as soon as I walked into the gym it felt like my home. Everybody made me feel like home,” said Peter.

The timing couldn’t be worse for young fighters like Peter and his sparring partner Colin Sampilo. They are gearing up to compete in Thailand in March, where they'll represent Team USA at an international competition in Muay Thai, a martial art from Thailand.

“I really hope they find another place for us to train,” said Colin. 

In the meantime, the staff is looking for space so the athletes can continue training. But ultimately the goal is to reopen the gym in Astoria as soon as possible.

“It’s a challenge and we’re up for the challenge. We’re fighters, so we’re going to fight back,” said Nabih.

Because Sitan is a well-known and respected gym in the Muay Thai community, word quickly spread. A GoFundMe page has raised almost $40,000 in just three days.

Nabih says he did not have fire insurance and the mats he lost in the fire alone cost upwards of $20,000. But his staff is inspired by the kindness they’ve been shown.

“We’re very grateful. And we’re going to rebuild,” said Joel Estevez, the manager of Sitan Muay Thai Gym. 

For more information head to gofundme.com/rebuild-sitan-gym