PA Governor Wolf appoints Rudy Battle chairman of State Athletic Commission

HARRISBURG, Pa., Oct. 8, 2015 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- Gov. Tom Wolf has appointed Rudy Battle, one of three state athletic commissioners, as chairman of the State Athletic Commission.

Battle has served as a state athletic commissioner since March 2008 when first appointed by former Gov. Ed Rendell. He was subsequently reappointed by former Gov. Tom Corbett.

As commissioner, Battle's primary responsibility is to promote public trust and confidence in the officials, regulatory process and conduct of public sports sanctioned by the Commission. Also, Battle's expertise in the ring provides constructive oversight and critique of referees' and judges' performances to ensure events are subject to an efficient system of strict control and regulations.

"I welcome the opportunity to continue my service to the Commonwealth," Battle said. "I am grateful and humbled by the governor's appointment and the trust he has placed in me. It's the honor of my life."

Battle brings considerable experience to his new position.

His career as a professional referee began in Pennsylvania in 1974 and in New Jersey in 1978.

As an international boxing referee, Battle was licensed by the International Boxing Federation, the World Boxing Organization, the World Boxing Union, the World Boxing Association, and the World Boxing Council.

In his capacity as a member of these world bodies, Battle refereed more than 1,000 bouts and approximately 100 world championships. Battle also has conducted numerous training and development seminars on boxing ring mechanics for fellow officials around the globe.

Battle refereed one of the largest monetary world championship fights in the history of boxing, Evander Holyfield versus George Foreman.

In November 1998, Battle was inducted into the New Jersey Boxing Hall of Fame. He received recognition from three of the world boxing bodies, including world championship belts, and was awarded a proclamation from the City Council of Philadelphia for his achievements.

Battle succeeds Joel Frank as chairman of the commission. Frank, who was appointed in 2013, will continue in his role as commissioner.

MEDIA CONTACT: Wanda Murren, (717) 783-1621

SOURCE Pennsylvania Department of State

Related Links

http://www.state.pa.us