Boxer Mike Tyson's plans to come to Barnsley as part of a speaking tour have been blasted by group supporting sexual assault victims - because he is a convicted rapist.
He is due to take park in 'An Evening with Mike Tyson' at the Metrodome in October and the promoters describe Tyson as a larger-than-life personality who is a 'legend both in and out of the ring'.
But Lynne Casserly, of Barnsley Sexual Abuse and Rape Crisis Service, believes his criminal history makes his appearance inappropriate.
She said: "Tyson is a convicted rapist. We are struggling to see why anyone would want to go and listen to somebody like that speak."
Co-promoter Tony Dunn, of Sports Media, said the talk was about sporting achievement. "Nothing will be mentioned about the conviction. We don't want to offend anybody. He's talking purely abut his achievements in the ring."
Barnsley Premier Leisure runs the Metrodome. A spokesman said: "BPL accepted the event due to Mike Tyson being one the most successful sports stars within history. BPL has no intention of causing offence or disrespect to any groups or individuals."
For more views and reaction, see this week's Town edition.
© 2013 Barnsley Chronicle Ltd
Hi
Whilst I agree with the emotional sentiments linked to mikes visit, is it not true that whilst he is convicted of the crime he also was punishes under law for his crime ?
Unless we start executing people for this sort of crime it is better to let the law deal with it then move on
A word 'forgiveness' springs to mind
Once a sex offender, always a sex offender. Forgiveness shouldn't even enter into it. He may have been "punished" according to the US law, that doesn't mean that he's now no longer a threat!!
@Drew Jones - forgiveness? The law rarely deals with this crime effectively and Tyson only completed half of his sentence - his victim is serving a life sentence while he is swanning around being applauded for his 'achievements' - not acceptable. He stole a young girls life, her sense of safety and he does not deserve this accolade. What I perceive from your comment is the crime was insignificant - let it go and my answer to that is - no.
If a British boxer had a rape conviction would he be able to freely visit the USA ? This man probably has some very entertaining anecdotes from the boxing world but he is a convicted rapist and should be treated as such and not feted..