Press Conference Brawl
On January 22, 2002, a brawl involving the two boxers and their entourages occurred at a press conference held in New York to publicise the bout.
Tyson went on stage at the Hudson Theatre and stared in the direction of where Lewis was to appear. As soon as Lewis appeared, Tyson quickly walked toward him and appeared to be about to assault Lewis. One of Lewis’ bodyguards attempted to block Tyson's access to Lewis before Tyson threw a left hook in the bodyguard's direction.
The two boxers rolled on the floor with personnel from both camps getting involved.
During the melee WBC president José Sulaimán claimed to be knocked out when he hit his head on the table. He later filed a US$56 million lawsuit against Lewis and Tyson for injuries caused in the scuffle. Sulaiman claims he was spat on and Tyson threatened to kill him, when he got up after being knocked out.
Tyson later admitted to biting Lewis' leg and had to pay him US$335,000.
Following the brawl Tyson came to the edge of the podium, and issued a several minute-long profanity-laden tirade towards freelance journalist Mark Malinowski, who suggested that Tyson should be put in a straitjacket. Tyson punctuated his oration by vowing to introduce Malinowski to the concept of prison romance.
The brawl at the press conference for this fight was named The Ring magazine Event of the Year for 2002.
Read more about this topic: Lennox Lewis Vs. Mike Tyson
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