Tyson-Lewis bout clears big hurdle
( 2002-03-07 11:51 ) (7 )

Mayor Anthony Williams on Wednesday guaranteed the owner of the MCI Center "a safe environment" for a Mike Tyson-Lennox Lewis fight, clearing a hurdle that had threatened to derail the bout.

The meeting between Williams and Abe Pollin came one day after Tyson met with several doctors - both medical and psychiatric - and was interviewed by the D.C. Boxing and Wrestling Commission during a visit to the city.

The commission will hold a public hearing Tuesday on Tyson's application for a boxing license. If the commission grants the license, a Tyson-Lewis bout could be held June 8 at the MCI Center.

Pollin had said he would consider allowing his arena to be used only if the mayor could guarantee its security. The uncertainty over Pollin's willingness to be involved with a Tyson fight had led to speculation that the promoters might try to hold it outdoors at RFK Stadium.

"The mayor stressed the importance of this fight to Washington, D.C., from an economic standpoint, and he guaranteed a safe environment," said Matt Williams, a spokesman for Pollin. "Mr. Pollin responded by saying he is open to having the fight. If all the logistics are worked out, the MCI Center will be available."

Another hurdle, stipulated by the mayor, was cleared with Tyson's visit. Commission vice chairman Michael Brown gave no details about the boxer's appearance before the panel and declined to say what kind of tests the doctors gave Tyson.

"From our standpoint, it was an interview," Brown said. "As far as the doctors, I don't want to characterize it for them."

The mayor has also said that any material from Tyson's appearance before the commission should be made available to the public. Brown said the commission is still discussing that.

"We're considering how to disseminate it," Brown said, "if we disseminate it at all."

Washington is one of several cities vying for the Tyson-Lewis bout. He was granted a license this week to fight in Tennessee, and Michigan has emerged as a front-runner. Nevada turned down Tyson in January.

In Washington, the fight has been opposed by the local board of trade and several politicians. The mayor, however, has maintained his support because of the economic benefit the fight would bring.

Brown said Lewis also has begun the process to apply for a license and that his representatives will visit Washington later this week.