Boxing legend Mike Tyson's Merseyside visit under fire from campaigners and politicians

Sep 5 2012 Liam Murphy Liverpool Echo

A VISIT by former world heavyweight boxing champion Mike Tyson has sparked condemnation on Merseyside.

He is due to speak at a lunch in Liverpool and tour Wirral boxing gyms next month.

The 46-year-old became notorious after being jailed for rape and biting off rival Evander Holyfield’s earlobe during a fight.

And this has led to strong objections from rape crisis campaigners and politicians.

Organiser of the visit, former professional boxer Kenny Rainford, said he wanted Tyson to visit the gyms “to inspire the youngsters”.

The ex-boxer will also attend a £75 a head “traditional” Sunday lunch at the Devonshire House Hotel in Edge Lane, on October 7, where he will talk about his life, answer questions and pose for pictures.

But Jo Wood from the Rape & Sexual Abuse (RASA) Centre for Wirral, Liverpool and Sefton, described the visit as inappropriate.

She said: “It’s appalling this man is being used as a role model. Kids will think you can beat people up and rape and people will still pay to come and see you.

“What message is it giving to our young folks.

“And how many men and women will there be across Merseyside, victims of rape, saying I know what he has done.

“How can people pay £75 to go to dinner with him.”