Ex-boxer Mike Tyson to take a bite out of Broadway

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"It's a great story and he tells it masterfully," said Lee, who calls it a tale of redemption that only needs some tweaking from the Vegas edition. "He's lifted himself off the canvas."

Tyson began boxing in a facility for juvenile delinquents in upstate New York at the age of 12. Eight years later, he became the youngest heavyweight champion ever when he knocked out Trevor Berbick.

But in 1990, he was defeated by James "Buster" Douglas in one of the biggest upsets in boxing history, and soon after he was convicted of raping a beauty pageant contestant in Indianapolis. Tyson, who still denies he raped the woman, served three years in prison.

As his career continued, so did his bizarre behavior. He bit off a piece of Evander Holyfield's ear during a boxing match and once threatened to eat the children of heavyweight champion Lennox Lewis.

Over the past few years, there have been charges of cocaine possession, driving under the influence, scuffles with photographers, parts in films like "The Hangover" franchise and tragedy, including the accidental death of his 4-year-old daughter, Exodus. He said he's been clean and happily remarried for the past few years.

His show follows a line of recent one-man shows to hit Broadway, including ones by William Shatner, Hugh Jackman and Kathy Griffin. They're cheaper than a full-blown production and more flexible, both godsends to theater owners with empty venues. Tickets for Tyson's show are priced $75 to $199, with VIP tickets going for $300.

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Online:

http://www.tysononbroadway.com

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