Two prominent Nevada boxing commissioners reappointed

The reappointments of Nevada Athletic Commission Chairman Dr. Elias Ghanem and Commissioner Luther Mack were announced Friday by Gov. Bob Miller.

Miller spokesman Gordon Absher said the timing of the reappointments was coincidental and occurred only because the terms of the two men expire on Oct. 31.

"The governor feels very strongly they have represented the state through some tough and interesting times," Absher said.

Both Ghanem and Mack have played influential roles on the commission, voting last year to revoke Tyson's boxing license and fine him $3 million for biting Evander Holyfield's ears.

On Monday, they both voted to return Tyson's license, while warning him that another violation would result in the former heavyweight champion never fighting in Nevada again.

"The last year and a half particularly, the eyes of the global public at large, and not just the sports world, have been focused on Nevada's Athletic Commission," Miller said. "Throughout this trying time, Elias Ghanem and Luther Mack have been credible, professional assets to this commission. Through their long-term service, they have helped it emerge as the best in the boxing world."

Ghanem, a Las Vegas doctor, was originally appointed to the commission in 1987. Mack, operator of a string of McDonald's restaurants in Reno, was appointed in 1989.

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