“We’re thrilled to welcome Hard Rock to the neighborhood and wish them all the very best,” Bill Hornbuckle, CEO and president of casino giant MGM Resorts International said in a statement. The deal became official following Nevada Gaming Commission approval at a special meeting Friday. Hard Rock and MGM Resorts announced plans for the operational takeover a year ago. The statement specified there were no immediate plans to close The Mirage or lay off employees. “We are excited to create an integrated resort on the Strip that will make this legendary entertainment community proud,” Allen said.
