Filed under: Other Sports
Mike Tyson, whose boxing career in the '80s and early '90s was one of the most prolific in the sport's history, has been selected to be inducted into the International Boxing Hall of Fame and Museum in Canastota, New York. Tyson will be joined by Mexican three-division champion Julio Cesar Chavez, junior welterweight champion Kostya Tszyu, Mexican trainer Ignacio "Nacho" Beristain, referee Joe Cortez, and Sylvester Stallone for bringing more attention to the sport of boxing in his Rocky films.
"I am honored," Tyson said of being elected. "The sport of boxing has given me so much, and it is truly a blessing to be acknowledged alongside other historical boxing legends because they paved the way for me, as I hope I have inspired others in this great sport."
Inductees were voted in by members of the Boxing Writers Association of America and a panel of international boxing historians. The ceremonies will be held on June 12, 2011 and will also posthumously induct bantamweight Memphis Pal Moore, light heavyweight champion Jack Root, and middleweight Dave Shade in the old-timer category, British heavyweight John Gully in the pioneer category, promoter A.F. Bettinson, and broadcaster Harry Carpenter.
Chavez retired just five years ago, but is honored to be among the inductees.
"I feel humble," Chavez said. "At this moment in my life, to be inducted into the Hall of Fame is very special. I feel great to know that my name will be inscribed with the best of the best, to join some of my heroes and to leave a mark for my family and my country."