Don’t Box Tyson Into a Corner

Re “Boxing Commission: Don’t Bite,” editorial, Feb. 4: Mike Tyson deserves to have a license to fight anywhere in the world, especially in Las Vegas (the boxing capital of the world). How can the Nevada State Athletic Commission deny Tyson a license? After all, he is a legendary boxer who is one of the most entertaining sports figures of all time. Denying him a license will affect the sport of boxing.

The Nevada commission and the California State Athletic Commission need to forgive and forget about Tyson’s past. One of them should let the April 6 fight between two of the greatest heavyweight fighters today take place. After all, Tyson does not need to be a role model to anybody but needs to entertain the boxing world with his heroic presence in the ring. How can the Nevada State Athletic Commission deny a license to the greatest fighter in recent decades, whom everyone wants to see fight? I guess the commission--and boxing as a sport--wants to lose fans and money, which does not make sense.

Mike Tyson versus Lennox Lewis will be one of the biggest sports events of the year. Tyson should have a license to fight anywhere in the world.

Ben Taub

Agoura Hills

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Applause for your editorial urging the California State Athletic Commission to refuse to grant Tyson a license to fight in Los Angeles. Boos for Tim Leiweke, Staples Center president, for being so anxious to grab a few dollars that he “would very much like to hold the fight here.” The day that Los Angeles has to take Las Vegas rejects is the day we should all pack up and leave.

Ross Barrett

Los Angeles