Mike Tyson donates signed belt to Rawthorpe Amateur Boxing Club

Nov 19 2009 by Barry Gibson, Huddersfield Daily Examiner

“We went to the bar area to relax but had to leave after half an hour because of the amount of people wanting to get photos signed.

“We then went to Mike’s suite and he talked till 4.30am about his life in more detail, from being a young child, being in a reform school, his introduction to boxing and the highs and lows of his life, including his bust-ups with Don King and Frank Warren. I was enthralled.”

Mark also got the benefit of Tyson’s expertise on boxing.

He said: “On the Friday night we watched the Rogan versus Sexton fight on TV. It was unreal sitting next to the former heavyweight champion of the world talking tactics.”

After spending a week with Tyson, Mark believes his fearsome reputation is not justified.

He said: “It was so special to be part of this tour in so many ways but the main thing that came out of this tour was how humble, respectful and knowledgeable Mike is. He writes poetry, he’s well-read and knows the history of this country better than I know it myself.”

Mark hopes Tyson will visit Huddersfield on his next tour.

He said: “There is talk of another tour which I will be involved with, so watch this space.”