In what is surely the culmination of one of the unlikeliest reconciliations in boxing history, former Heayvweight Champion Mike Tyson will deliver the presenting speech for former Heavyweight Champ Evander Holyfield’s induction into the Nevada Boxing Hall of Fame. Tyson will present Holyfield, and then following Holyfield’s speech, will personally hand the NVBHOF Trophy to Holyfield in a “photo-op” for the ages. The memorable moment will take place Saturday night, August 9, in the beautiful Cohiba Ballroom of The New Tropicana, Las Vegas.
Holyfield and Tyson engaged in two fierce battles at the MGM Grand Garden Arena in 1996-’97. The “Real Deal” won both, first by an 11th-Rd TKO, and the rematch by 3rd-RD disqualification in the famous ear-bite fight. Despite the ferocity of both bouts, the two’s feelings have softened toward each other in recent years, appearing in features and even a commercial together.
Tyson called the opportunity to present Holyfield a “privilege and high-honor.” Evander’s response was quick and to the point: “That is great!” NVBHOF President and Founder Rich Marotta said “This is the kind of thing we showed is possible in boxing last year at our Inaugural Induction Ceremony. Former and even current rivals coming together under the same roof to celebrate boxing. Everyone checks those rivalries at the door. Tyson presenting Holyfield is sheer magic.”
Holyfield was selected for induction in the “Non-Nevada Resident” category along with George Foreman and Roberto Duran by the 35-member voting panel of the NVBHOF. Tyson was an Inaugural Inductee last year in the “Nevada Resident” Class.
Remaining tickets for the Nevada Boxing Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony and Dinner are available on-line at: nvbhof.com
Tax-deductible tickets are $300 Gold Level, and $175 Silver Level. the $75 Bronze Level tickets are sold-out.
The Nevada Boxing Hall of Fame is an IRS 501(c)3, non-profit charity organization which donates to boxing-related and
Nevada causes.
