Former world heavyweight boxing champion Mike Tyson is hoping to deliver a knockout blow with his new cannabis product – edibles in the shape of nibbled ears.
The bizarre products are a nod to when Tyson infamously bit off part of the ear of his opponent Evander Holyfield in their WBA Heavyweight Championship bout in Nevada in 1997.
The edibles have been released by Tyson 2.0 – a cannabis company founded by the iconic boxer known as “Iron Mike”.
They come in flavours including black eye berry, sour apple punch and watermelon.
The edibles are available from the company’s online store, but have already been spotted in dispensaries in New York.
The 57-year-old is reportedly planning a promotional tour at shops next month, including an event in Times Square.
Not everyone in the cannabis industry is said to be enthused about the release of Tyson’s product.
The former boxer was convicted of rape in 1992 and has also been accused of domestic violence.
Stu Zakim, a publicist for the cannabis dispensary The Travel Agency in Union Square, told the New York Post: “They’re honouring this convicted rapist and wife beater as a role model. We should use much better role models.”
Tyson’s 1997 bout against Holyfield, the second time they had met in the ring, became known as The Bite Fight following Iron Mike’s act of partial cannibalism.
Tyson’s boxing licence was revoked by the Nevada State Athletic Commission and he was fined $3m.
Holyfield reacts after having part of his ear bitten off. Pic: Reuters
He retired from professional boxing in 2005 with 50 wins, including 44 knockouts, and six losses.
Earlier this month he announced he will be fighting YouTuber-turned-boxer Jake Paul in a bout that will be shown live on Netflix later this year.
