Retired boxing legend, Mike Tyson, will be returning to the bright lights in Las Vegas only this time he isn’t going back for a fight. He is trading in his boxing gloves for a mic and his boxing ring will be replaced by a stage as he debuts in “Mike Tyson: Undisputed Truth, Live on Stage” from April 13 to 18 at the Hollywood Theatre.
Tickets for the 740 seat Hollywood Theatre will range from $99.99 to $599.99 as the audience will be invited to view a no-holds-barred multimedia presentation of Tyson’s life story. Even after nearly three decades since Tyson shocked the boxing world by becoming the youngest heavyweight champion at age 20, Tyson’s name still brings a lot fan fare. In recent times Tyson has reemerged in the public eye with his roles in the smash hit comedies, The Hangover Part 1 &2, as well as an appearance on Comedy Central’s Charlie Sheen roast.
Tyson was also the focal point of the self titled documentary by James Toback which debuted in 2008 with critical acclaim.
“Mike Tyson: Undisputed Truth, Live on Stage” is scheduled for a week’s run but will extend if it becomes a sold out affair. Whether or not Tyson’s onstage debut will be a hit is yet to be determined but this situation is a win-win for Tyson.
If “Mike Tyson: Undisputed Truth” becomes a big thing in the next chapter for Tyson, exposure and fiscal gain will no doubt follow. If it is a flop it shouldn’t hurt Tyson’s public image too severely, Tyson can’t top his Holyfield ear incident with a bad show.
As a long time boxing fan, I sincerely hope for the former. Not long ago, Tyson was reduced to fighting exhibition matches in 2006 against unknowns to earn some money after declaring bankruptcy in 2003. With his recent “comeback” due in part to his acting gigs, I hope “Iron Mike” can keep it going and score a knockout with the crowd.
