CNC Christchurch and House of Pain boxer, Combat Dollies founder and mum of seven Gemma Ruegg wins Commonwealth Silver title belt after beating Charlotte Powell

CNC Christchurch and House of Pain boxer Gemma Ruegg says holding the Commonwealth Silver title belt after beating Charlotte Powell in Manchester was a “surreal experience”.

The super flyweight boxer Ruegg won on a unanimous points decision after 10 rounds in the bout at the Bowlers Exhibition Centre.

The 40-year-old mum of seven suffered a forearm injury in the build-up, but she recovered in time and fully deserved the unanimous victory.

“Reflecting on the fight against my more experienced opponent, I felt a mix of nerves and determination”, said Gemma ‘The Rebel’ Ruegg. “I knew she had a solid track record, but I focused on my training and strategy. As the fight progressed, I could sense that my explosive jab and agility were giving me an edge.

“A key moment for me was in the second round when I landed a clean combination that visibly affected her. It boosted my confidence and made me realise that I could match her skill level.

“Instead of backing down, I embraced the challenge, and that moment solidified my belief that I could win the fight. It was a pivotal turning point that fueled my performance for the rest of the bout.”

After suffering mental health difficulties and alcohol addiction in her youth, she took up the sweet science on the advice of her family doctor. She went on to win boxing championships at two weight classes in the Queensbury Boxing League, even winning the regional welterweight title ten weeks after giving birth to her sixth child.

She is married to Danny Ruegg, her trainer, and her son, Mace, is a professional boxer.

In his next fight, Mace will take on Liam Dillon – who fought New Milton professional Stef Vincent in his last fight – for the vacant Commonwealth Silver Lightweight title at the Bournemouth International Centre on Saturday. If victorious, it would be the first time a mother and son have both held Commonwealth titles simultaneously.

Ruegg added: “When they presented me with the silver belt, it was an overwhelming mix of emotions. I felt an immense sense of pride and accomplishment, knowing all the hard work, dedication, and sacrifices that had gone into preparing for this moment.

“As I held the belt, it symbolised not just my victory but also the journey I’ve taken as a boxer. It was a surreal experience, standing there with the cheers of my cornermen and my son around me, and I felt a deep gratitude for my team, coaches, and supporters who believed in me throughout this journey.”

Ruegg started as a professional boxer later than most, getting her licence at 35 after a long career in MMA and unlicensed boxing.

“I got into professional boxing during the pandemic”, she said. “When I saw an opportunity to finally pursue my dream after being signed by my local manager, Steve Bendall.

“It was a pivotal moment for me, as I realised I could take my skills from MMA and unlicensed boxing and apply them in a professional boxing setting.

“In addition to my fighting career, I’ve also been coaching at the [CNC Christchurch] gym for five years as an amateur boxing coach and have recently got my professional boxing trainers licence.

“Coaching has allowed me to give back to the sport, share my knowledge, and help aspiring fighters develop their skills. It’s been a fulfilling part of my journey, and I enjoy watching my students grow and succeed in their own boxing careers.

“I have also got the opportunity to coach and corner our 10-year-old on his first amateur bout next month. Also known as the leprechaun who walks us local professionals out on fight night!”

In 2016, she formed the fitness apparel clothing brand Combat Dollies, where she is the sole director. Her gym wear has been featured in the TV show The Ultimate Fighter – where amateurs compete for a UFC contract – and worn by Invicta fighting champion MMA fighter Pannie Kianzad.

“When I first started training in the gym, I couldn’t find any clothing that fit. It was either too baggy, like men’s clothing, or too tight and not flexible enough for women to wear. So, I made clothes that I was happy to wear at the gym. Then I made some for my friends and then their friends, and it grew from there.”

To get in contact or follow Gemma Ruegg’s journey, search @gemma_the_rebel – for more information about Combat Dollies, visit combatdollies.co.uk