Ron Scott Stevens is replaced as chairman of NY State Athletic Commission. By GEORGE WILLIS
Ron Scott Stevens was informed yesterday he is being replaced as chairman of the New York State Athletic Commission effective today. The Post has learned Gov. David Paterson will appoint commission member Melvina Lathan as the new chairperson.
Stevens said he was in “shock” after being told his 5-year tenure as the overseer of boxing in New York had come to an abrupt end. “When you come into this profession, you know this is part of the territory,” said Stevens, who was appointed chairman by Gov. George Pataki in 2003. “I did the best possible job I knew how to do. I tried to serve with distinction and be as fair as I know how to be. I think the boxing community responded to my leadership.”
When Stevens became chairman there were only 17 boxing events throughout the state that year. Over the last two years there were 37 and 38 events, respectively. In 2006, Stevens received the James A. Farley Award for honesty and integrity from the Boxing Writers Association of America.
Stevens’ term as a commission member expires on Jan. 1, 2009. “I’m very committed to the sport of boxing and the boxers and I will continue as long as I remain a commission member,” he said.
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