June 4, 2022 5:30 am CST The Alabama Athletic Commission today announced the hiring of a new Executive Director, John Parris. Parris, an Alabama native and United States Army veteran, served as an infantryman and gunner on the M2 Bradley Fighting Vehicle. He earned a bachelor’s degree in marketing from the University of South Alabama and brings with him two decades of experience in sales, marketing and operations management of both small and large businesses. “This is a tremendous opportunity to serve both the fight community as well as the public at large,” Parris said. “I bring a strong backbone in business management and can handle the day to day business operations of the Alabama Athletic Commission but most importantly, I bring a passion for combat sports. That’s where success happens first, with a passion for what you do when you get up and go to work in the morning. I couldn’t be more excited about this opportunity and I can’t wait to get started.” Alabama Athletic Commission Chair Casey Sears agrees. “I have known John for more than 10 years and he is a consummate professional,” he said. “He is going to bring a level of excitement and stability at the event level we haven’t seen in a while. I have every confidence in him and I’m proud to welcome him aboard as our new Executive Director.” Parris is working with the current Executive Director Keith Warren during the transition over the next few weeks and he will officially begin his new role as of July 2, 2022. “As we move through the transition period, my focus is on events we currently have scheduled to ensure everything runs smoothly and we will be ready to turn everything over to John starting in July,” Warren said. Casey C. Sears, Chair Alabama Athletic Commission 205-526-5228