Mills Lane was born on December 11, 1937, in Georgia. He began his boxing career while serving in the United States Marine Corps. During his time at the University of Nevada, Reno, Lane became the NCAA Boxing Champion, showcasing his talent and dedication to the sport.
After his successful boxing career, Mills Lane transitioned into a referee, where he made a name for himself in the sport of boxing. He officiated many high-profile fights, including the infamous 'Bite Fight' between Mike Tyson and Evander Holyfield. Lane's catchphrase, 'let's get it on,' became synonymous with his refereeing style and was even used in popular culture on MTV's Celebrity Deathmatch.
Aside from his work in the boxing ring, Mills Lane also found success on television. He presided over the court television show Judge Mills Lane in the late 90s and early 2000s, showcasing his no-nonsense attitude and strong sense of justice to a wide audience.
In 1980, Mills Lane married Kaye Pierce, with whom he has children named Terry and Tommy. Despite his fame and success in the boxing world, Lane valued his family and relationships above all else.
Three weeks after the infamous "Bite Fight," Mills Lane refereed the WBC Heavyweight Championship fight between Lennox Lewis and Henry Akinwande, showcasing his professionalism and dedication to the sport.
Mills Lane's impact on boxing and television cannot be understated. His tough but fair demeanor in the ring and on television solidified him as a beloved figure in both worlds. His contributions to the sport and entertainment industry will be remembered for years to come.