Boxing: Tyson in fear of a life ban

Boxing

Mike Tyson , the former heavyweight world champion, will need about six weeks to fully recover from a motorcycle accident even if tests show that his lung has repaired itself, doctors said yesterday.

Connecticut state police said that Tyson had been fined $77 (pounds 48) for not having a motorcycle licence when he overturned his new Honda on an interstate highway ramp.

Dr Ira Trocki, the fighter's plastic surgeon and physician, said the injury should not damage Tyson's boxing skills. The 31-year-old fighter, who was banned from the sport after biting the ear of his opponent Evander Holyfield, can apply for reinstatement in July.

However, in an interview taped before the accident, Tyson says: "I really think I'll be banned for the rest of my life."

In the ABC's Prime Time Live, to be shown Monday night, he says: "I truly think everyone hates me. I truly believe that, because no one gets punished more than I am. But I understand; I'm a big boy, and I believe big boys have big ordeals to deal with."