Tyson the Buchanan groupie

Mike Tyson last night launched his version of a charm offensive, sporting a Scotland football shirt and speaking of his deep affection for Scottish boxing legend Ken Buchanan.

"Ken Buchanan, man? Yeah, he was the greatest. I am like a groupie for these great fighters," said Tyson of Buchanan, who was recently inducted into boxing's Hall of Fame.

"He's had a rough time. Man I cried when I heard. Tell Ken I want to help him out - I will look after him. I'd like Ken to contact me. It would be an honour and a privilege to meet him.

"Ken was a victim like me. He was screwed by the system that same as they're doing to me. I cry for him - and you know why? Fighters are treated like dirt and it's natural for a warrior to weep. Man, I cry every day.

"You Brits don't back your heroes. I guess it's the class system. You know the soccer player I love? Maradona. He's my guy. He made all those mistakes. I know all about that.

"I told that Pele guy what Maradona was up to. I don't think he was happy to hear what I had to say."

Copyright 2000
Provided by ProQuest Information and Learning Company. All rights Reserved.