FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
State Rep. Ronald G. Waters D-Philadelphia/Delaware www.pahouse.com/Waters

PLBC endorses Battle as Commissioner of State Athletic Commission

HARRISBURG, March 9 – In a letter to Gov. Corbett, State Rep. Ronald G. Waters, D-Phila./Delaware, and members of the Pennsylvania Legislative Black Caucus, recently proclaimed their support for Rudy Battle to continue his role as a Commissioner of the Pennsylvania State Athletic Commission.

"Commissioner Battle has done a superb job in oversight of boxing and mixed martial arts events," Waters said. "His knowledge in the ring provides the appropriate level of constructive critique of referees and judges’ performances necessary to maintain proper professionalism, including implementation of a uniform dress code for officials at all events."

Commissioner Battle is lauded by many athletic professionals throughout the world. He is a world champion, having been awarded championship belts from the International Boxing Federation, the World Boxing Organization and the World Boxing Union. He is a 1998 inductee of the New Jersey Boxing Hall of Fame.

In addition to his athletic accomplishments, Commissioner Battle has pioneered efforts of inclusion and is responsible for the recruitment of the first minority Mixed Martial Arts judge in Pennsylvania.

"It is for these reasons, and many more, that my colleagues and I confidently offer our recommendations for Commissioner Rudy Battle’s re-nomination," Waters acclaimed. "His commitment and dedication to our state and to the sport are unwavering and well deserving of the continuation of his appointment."

The SAC operates under the Department of State and is responsible for oversight of over 900 professionals and sporting events including professional boxing, mixed martial arts, kickboxing and wrestling. 

Waters serves as Chairman of the Pennsylvania Legislative Black Caucus.

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