Hi everyone,

For someone in the local MMA and sports community, we all know when hard times hit, we could all use a bit of support from people around us. Our good friend Craig Nielsen has been a pillar of the BFL team since 2010. He’s traveled the province with us and has been the face of the company from the very beginning.

Almost a year ago, Craig began developing symptoms of mild pain in his hips. Doctors initially diagnosed him with polymyalgia rheumatica, a condition similar to arthritis that can be treated with steroids. While being treated and gradually being given higher and higher doses of steroids, Craig’s condition seemed to be worsening. His last day of work at his regular job was New Years Eve, as his ability to walk had deteriorated to the point that his mobility had been greatly compromised.

Around the end of the first quarter of 2025, his condition continued to worsen all while he’d been given medication that gradually increased his symptoms. By June, he was seen by another specialist and an orthopedic surgeon that informed him that he was misdiagnosed initially and that he actually had avascular necrosis and his hips had deteriorated to the point where they both need to be replaced.

Craig has held his head high and kept quiet within his circle about his condition, but we were fortunate to have been made aware of his condition. While he’s in good spirits after having his first surgery and is recovering well, we recognize the difficulties in trying to maintain the necessary quality of life and health when not able to work for an extended period and little governmental support. We are kindly asking that people recognize his condition and efforts and we appreciate any support that can be given while he works towards getting back on his feet (literally). Craig is a humble man and appreciates this as we’ve taken action on his behalf.