Gemma Louise Ruegg (born December 24, 1984), also known as Gemma Hewitt, is a British female boxer and business owner from Bournemouth, Dorset.
After suffering mental health difficulties and alcohol addiction in her youth, she took up sport on the advice of her family doctor. She went on to become the first female boxing champion at two weight classes in the QBL after winning the regional welterweight title, ten weeks after giving birth to her sixth child.
Her trainer is husband Danny Ruegg, and her step-son Mace is also a professional boxer.
In 2016 she formed the fitness apparel clothing brand Combat Dollies, where she serves as director.
In November 2024, Ruegg became the Commonwealth Super Flyweight Silver Belt Champion, marking a significant milestone in her boxing career. Beyond her accomplishments in the ring, Ruegg is a passionate mental health advocate. She uses her experiences with mental health struggles to inspire others as a speaker. Ruegg has shared her journey at various organizations, including Numatic and Screwfix, emphasizing how fitness became a vital tool for her recovery and wellness. Through her advocacy, she aims to raise awareness and support for mental health issues, encouraging individuals to prioritize their well-being.
Early life
From the age of 16, Ruegg had an alcohol addiction and suffered with depression and self-harm. When the family doctor advised her to join a gym, Ruegg took up boxing as a source of focus, it turned her life around. She said:
She married Danny Ruegg in 2016 and has seven children; she also has 5 step-children. Following her doctor's guidelines, she trained throughout her pregnancy and regularly takes her children with her to the gym.
Career
Mixed Martial Arts
Ruegg had two professional bouts as a bantamweight fighter, and one amateur bout, both with promoter House of Pain.
ResultOpponentTypeRound, timeDateLocationStatusLoss Agnieszka NiedzwiedzSubmission (Triangle Choke)1, Apr 12, 2014 Cage Warriors 67, Swansea, WalesProfessionalWin Chloe HinchliffeTKO (Punches)1, Nov 9, 2013 Shock N Awe 15ProfessionalLoss Rute FriasDecision (unanimous)3, Sep 22, 2013 British Challenge MMA 4Amateur
Pro Boxing
After winning two regional titles in two different weight categories at the Queensbury Boxing League, Ruegg was granted her professional licence in June 2021. She signed with Dorset boxing promoter Steve Bendall, at SK4 Promotions.
ResultOpponentTypeDateLocationWin Claudia FerencziPTSApr 30, 2022 Civic Hall, GraysLoss Chloe WatsonPTSApr 2, 2022 Newcastle Arena, NewcastleLoss Emma DolanPTSDec 18, 2021 Norfolk Showground, NorwichLoss Tysie GallagherPTSNov 26, 2021 DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel (formerly Park Hotel), SheffieldWin Claudia FerencziPTSOct 22, 2021 Central Hall, Southampton
Combat Dollies In 2016, Ruegg set up the fitness apparel clothing brand Combat Dollies. She stated:
Her gymwear has been featured in the 28th season of the TV show The Ultimate Fighter, worn by Invicta fighting champion MMA fighter Pannie Kianzad.
She is the sole director of the company.
References
External links Official Combat Dollies Website Gemma Ruegg Fighter profile, Tapology Gemma Hewitt Fighter profile, Tapology