AnnMaria deMars was once a key player in the fight sports industry through Ronda Rousey, her daughter and former UFC bantamweight champion. She’ll now help to regulate the sport in her home state.
DeMars, 63, has been appointed to the California State Athletic Commission by Gov. According to the press statement, Gavin Newsom was appointed by Gov. She will serve as a commissioner on the six-member team, voting on issues that include the enforcement of combat sports rules and anti-doping policies. Her confirmation by the California senate is expected to be a formality.
DeMars will have the chance to use her vast martial arts experience. She first woman to win gold at the World Judo Championships and was Rousey’s first judo coach. She famously woke up the future UFC champion by putting her in armbars to test her technique.
DeMars retired from the competition and went into private business, earning a PhD in Educational Psychology along with an MBA. A statistics and math expert, she currently works in educational software and consulting.
During Rousey’s career, DeMars was frequently by her daughter’s side and famously blasted Rousey’s coach, Edmund Tarverdyan, for sexism in his gym. After a crushing loss to Amanda Nunes, Rousey was publicly called to halt.
Rousey subsequently transitioned to the pro-wrestling ring, where she signed with WWE and won several titles before stepping away to raise a family. This year, she returned to the ring.
DeMars will join the commission along with Stephen Gruwell, a veteran of the army. She will be serving alongside Chairman Peter Villegas and Vice Chair Dr. Vernon Williams as well as commissioners Doug Hendrickson (and Michael Hardeman). She and Gruwell will earn a $100 per diem as compensation.
“The California State Athletic Commission welcomes its newest Commissioners and looks forward to working together in its mission dedicated to the health, safety and welfare of participants in regulated combat sports,” CSAC spokesperson Monica Vargas told MMA Fighting in a prepared statement.
