Tyson does charity visit
Mike Tyson is
coming to Copthorne for an amateur boxing night.
The
former world heavyweight champion is taking part in an amateur boxing
after-dinner show at Effingham Park Golf Club, Copthorne, along with
fellow world heavyweight champion Frank Bruno on Friday, March 24.
Proceeds from the
event will go to Whoopsadaisy - a charity for disabled
children.
Initially the
black tie event was to be held in Brighton but it was blocked by
council leader Simon Burgess who questioned
Tyson's suitability following his conviction.
The event was
then moved to Copthorne following the block.
Tandridge
District Council, which covers Copthorne, said it has no plans to
oppose the show.
Former British
champion Scott Welch, who is promoting the evening, said he did not
understand the problem.
"The past is in
the past," he said. "You can't live in the past. You've got to look to
the future.
"He's done what
he's done but he wants to carry on with his life. It was 14 years ago.
"We are extremely
grateful that Mike has agreed to come to Crawley and support this show.
"He has many
loyal fans in the south who I'm sure will be eager to hear this amazing
story from the man himself."
Rees Hopcraft, of
Crawley Amateur Boxing Club, also defended Tyson.
"Mike Tyson is
one of the best, if not the best heavyweights of all time," he said.
"If
Tyson or Bruno were to visit Crawley Amateur Boxing Club as part of
their visit to the area it would be an honour to welcome them.
"Many
of our lads come from underprivileged backgrounds and to show people
like Tyson and Bruno taking an interest would be outstanding."
Proceeds from the event, which could be Tyson's last trip to the UK, are going to two Sussex childrens' charities.
More quotes available in the extended section of this post (click 'Read More' below).
