Larry Hazzard
Born: Dec. 7, 1944
Induction: 2010
Born December 7, 1944 in Newark, NJ. A former three-time New Jersey Golden Gloves champion, Hazzard began refereeing amateur bouts in 1967 and professional bouts in 1978. He went on to serve as third man in the ring for over 40-world title fights featuring such champions as Marvelous Marvin Hagler, Michael Spinks, Dwight Qawi, Sean O’Grady, Yoko Gushiken, Matthew Saad Muhammad, Harry Arroyo, Pernell Whitaker, Buddy McGirt and Riddick Bowe. He also refereed non-title bouts of Rocky Lockridge, James Scott, Ray Mancini, Bobby Czyz, Alexis Arguello, Leon Spinks, Iran Barkley, Thomas Hearns, Hector Camacho, Simon Brown, Marlon Starling and Donald Curry.
In 1985 he was appointed commissioner of the New Jersey State Athletic Control Board and served until November 2007. During his tenure he was a fervent advocate for boxer safety and health and implemented a state-of-the art licensing card.
Following his career as commissioner, he was appointed to serve as chairman of officials, education, development and supervision for the International Boxing Federation (IBF).