Gubernatorial nominee Ryan Lanham emphasizes athlete safety before Senate State Affairs Committee

Ryan Lanham, the governor's nominee for State Athletic Commissioner, told the Idaho Senate State Affairs Committee on Feb. 6 that he would prioritize the health and safety of combat-sport athletes if confirmed. The committee considered the appointment in Room WW55 but the minutes do not record a committee vote on the nomination.

Lanham said he brings "more than 20 years of experience participating in and coaching contact sports" and that he currently owns a boxing gym in Meridian. He described participating in two amateur boxing matches — "I won one and lost the other" — and said those experiences, plus relationships with the former commissioner, motivated him to seek the post. "I loved the joy contact sports could bring to people of all ages," he said.

Lanham told senators he viewed the State Athletic Commission's principal role as ensuring fighter safety across all levels. He said without the commission, "there would not be focus on athlete health and safety, fair match making, or safe weight cutting," and that those responsibilities would instead fall to event promoters with financial stakes, which he said could create risks for fighters.

Committee members asked Lanham about his experience and his view of the sport's future in Idaho. Senator Harris asked about his amateur fights; Lanham answered that the bouts were "amazing experiences." Senator Shippy asked Lanham to summarize the commission's work; Lanham highlighted regulation to protect athlete health and fair competition. Senator Adams asked about growing popularity of combat sports and Lanham said he hoped to bring additional events from a broad spectrum of promoters, including more professional-level, safely regulated contests.

The committee record shows consideration of the appointment during the Feb. 6 meeting; it does not record a formal motion or vote related to the nomination. The committee adjourned at 8:11 a.m.