Ann Osman is without a doubt a force to be reckoned with.
The Kota Kinabalu native might have carved a name for herself in the male dominated Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) sport but fighting professionally isn’t the only thing that keeps this straight ‘A’ student busy. Ann juggles a corporate career while staying on top of her game and it’s no wonder that Levi’s chose her to be their COOL personality. Besides looking smashing in a pair of Levi’s jeans, she is currently planning a female empowerment campaign with the denim brand to advocate self-confidence.
In this interview, the half Dusun beauty who is a descendant of warriors from Tambunan talks to us about her love for MMA, her closet must-haves and her beauty tips.
How did you discover your love for MMA?
I have always been sporty, in school and especially loving outdoor adventure sports – I’m a bit of an adrenaline junkie. While I don’t have a long past with martial arts, when I did try it out a few years ago, I immediately fell in love with it!
When I began going to the gym two years ago, I’d see AJ ‘Pyro’ Lias Mansor training and teaching Muay Thai and MMA. Initially, I joined for fitness and fun, but before I knew it I was training with the Borneo Tribal Squad and competing in some amateur MMA and Muay Thai competitions!
You’re a professional female MMA fighter, what does the saying “being a woman in a man’s world” mean to you?
While I never perceive Mixed Martial Art as a male sport , however it is definitely dominated by male athletes.Women’s MMA especially in Asia is fairly new which makes it more interesting as I believe more women are starting to break barriers and taking up the challenge to prove themselves as a Pro MMA fighter. While I have received some comments from men who tell me to just stay in the kitchen, well I can also prove to them that not only can women cook in the kitchen but women can also fight in the cage as well.
Out of curiosity, I’m sure lots of people have asked you if you scare men off when you tell them your profession. How do you respond to that?
Surprisingly it’s the absolute contrast to that belief. Men actually think it is pretty interesting that I am a Pro MMA fighter.
What is the biggest misconception that people have about you and your career?
The biggest misconception that people have about me is that being a Pro MMA fighter is my ONLY career. I actually have a corporate job as well which I balance together with my fight career.
Tell us more about your collaboration with Levi’s, and how it came about.
I am very happy to be working with Levi’s as one of their brand personality for their Keep Cool campaign. It has always been my favourite apparel brand and to be able to work with them is an honour. I am currently collaborating with Levi’s Malaysia to plan a Women’s Empowerment campaign sometime in September this year, focused on self-confidence, self-esteem and goal oriented program activities. Activities that requires women to be more active and involved with their own progress in their daily lifestyle and future goals. I believe by being more goal orientated with strong support and confidence can help to better themselves and also contribute more to society as a whole. Professional women from the MMA circuit, as well as other successful career women will be contributing their life experience to pave the way for other women to follow in their footsteps.
What does the Levi’s brand mean to you?
Levi’s has always been my favourite apparel brand even while growing up. Ever since my teen years, owning a Levi’s denim jeans meant a lot to me. It’s the brand that I look for whenever I need a pair of jeans. It gives me that confidence when I wear it (especially with a pair of heels) and its comfortable without compromising style. I always say, ‘Nothing beats a pair of good Levi’s jeans’.
How would you describe your personal style? What are your closet must-haves?
While being a Pro MMA fighter needs me to be in my sweats most of the time in the gym however outside of the gym, I love to dress up as well. I will say my style is more laid back chic but keeping it comfortable as well. Usually I dress up according to occasions. My closet must haves of course are the basic must haves: a few good pair of jeans (both dark and light), basic white or black top, black jacket and a sexy pair of heels.
Do you have any beauty tips that you can share?
Always moisturize and drink lots of water. I believe that most people don’t drink much water which causes just so much health problems which also shows on their skin and hair. I also believe that we should always have a moisturizer especially when we are always in air conditioned rooms. Hydrating moisturizers are the best; for myself, I love to use hydrating masks at least twice a week.
You’re a busy girl – what do you like to do to unwind?
Having a good time with my friends and family, watching funny sitcoms or comedies over the weekend and getting a good 90 minute body massage is my usual go to, to unwind.
