Satisfaction that Mike Tyson will get another boxing licence

A man he once fought and a promoter he is fighting expressed satisfaction that Mike Tyson would get another boxing licence.

'It's about time they gave the man's licence back,' said Larry Holmes, who was knocked out by Tyson in a title bid in 1988. 'I wish him well.' Don King, whom Tyson is suing for US$100 million, also said he was pleased with the decision.

'I am delighted Tyson will be able to fight again,' said King, who is accused of cheating the former champion out of millions of dollars.

'Taking the US$3 million was punishment enough,' Holmes said. 'He paid his dues with that.' As for Evander Holyfield, he has often said he thought Tyson had paid for his mistake and should get a licence.

'The primary victim of that mistake has forgiven him completely,' said Jim Thomas, Holyfield's lawyer. 'Mike has had an exemplary career inside the ropes, with one major exception. Everybody deserves a second chance.'