The boxing world woke up to the devastating news of losing one of its biggest assets. It was reported that veteran boxing referee, Mills Lane, passed away on December 6, 2022, at the age of 85. His passing was deeply mourned by many notable names in the world of boxing and combat sports. In fact, former world heavyweight champion, Larry Holmes, recently took to social media to pay his respects to the late referee.

Lane was a highly respected boxing referee who officiated over 200 bouts. Moreover, he was inducted into the International Hall of Fame in the year 2013. Lane also officiated over 100 title fights. And shared the ring with greats like Muhammad Ali, Mike Tyson, Evander Holyfield, and Larry Holmes. It should also be mentioned that prior to his career as a referee, he was a professional boxer with 11 fights under his belt. Another notable fact was that Mills was also a judge and district attorney. And, after retirement from boxing, he even hosted a court show, Judge Mills Lane, from 1998 to 2001.

Larry Holmes pays tribute to Mills Lane

‘The Easton Assassin‘ knew Mills Lane personally and was deeply affected by his passing. Moreover, he took to Instagram to share a heartfelt tribute.

Homes posted a few pictures of Lane officiating his fights. He further wrote in the caption, “You were the referee of referees. The best out there and the best to ever do it.”

Holmes also stated that he was delighted to have known Lane.

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It is also worth mentioning that Lane had also officiated three of Holmes’ title fights.

Notably, he was the referee when Holmes faced Holyfield at the Caesars Palace in Paradise, Nevada, in 1992. And when he faced Michael Spinks at the Las Vegas Hilton in Hilton Center, Las Vegas in 1986. Lane also officiated Holmes’ IBF world heavyweight title fight against Carl Williams in 1985.

The boxing world mourns Lane’s passing

Holmes was not alone. In fact, the boxing community and fans took to the comments to pay respects to Mills.

Kovit Sotipalalit paid tribute by saying, “RIP Referee Mills Lane.”

Similarly, Taj Kareem Freeman said, “Due respect in the honorable of the earth amen.”

On the other hand, Scott Newhard mentioned, “Mills was NO DOUBT the GOAT of Refs‼️”

Jean Roger Orsini mentioned, “The godfather of boxing referees.”

And, Peter Yemma said, “I was always shocked at how well he reffed big guys. Usually, the HW refs are big guys themselves. Mills had command of the ring and that says a lot.”

Meanwhile, Mike Glazner had an interesting incident to share. “My grandpa met him back in the 80s in a bar. Said he was a class act.”

Lane was undoubtedly one of the greatest boxing referees of all time. And his passing is sure to be a major blow to the world of boxing.

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Which was your favorite match officiated by Lane? Do share in the comments below.