Controversial visit of Mike Tyson 'massive success' (From Wirral Globe)

Controversial visit of Mike Tyson 'massive success'

9:55am Friday 12th October 2012 in News By Stephanie Cureton

Mike Tyson with Kenny Rainford and his sons Michael and Lee during visit to Wirral

BOXING legend Mike Tyson’s controversial visit to Wirral was a “massive success,” according to organisers.

The event which was held on Sunday, saw the heavyweight champion drop in to a Wallasey boxing gym to meet youngsters and offer expert advice.

Following the announcement that the self-styled "Baddest man on the planet" was to visit the borough, local councillors joined forces to try to stop it from going ahead.

Councillors Steve Williams and Chris Blakeley argued that he was not the right person for young people to look up to.

However organiser Kenny Rainford said the event went “very well” and that any opposition to Tyson did little to keep people away.

He said: “Mike was received with open arms and the controversy surrounding his visit only promoted it further and attracted more people.

“He had one-to-one sessions with people and offered them tips and advice – he was very caring towards them.

“Mike admits that he has done things wrong in his life but he managed to get back on the right road and is very inspirational.”

As part of his visit, Tyson called in to Wallasey ABC Gym and also hosted a lunch at the Devonshire House Hotel in Liverpool.

And Kenny is now hoping to welcome the boxer back to the area in the near future.

He added: “Mike had the time of his life here and we are already planning a special benefit dinner for next year.

"If you ask anyone who came on the day, they will tell you how great it was to meet him.”