Ex-boxer Mike Tyson banned from entering Britain following rape conviction

Mike Tyson, who was due in London this week for a promotional tour, has cancelled a book signing after finding out he is barred.

15:32 11 December 2013

Mike Tyson, the former world heavyweight champion boxer, is banned from entering Britain following a prior rape conviction. The boxer, who was due in London this week for his book signing had to cancel after making the discovery. He said that he was “greatly disappointed.”

Meanwhile, the publishers of his new autobiography Undisputed Truth, said that recent changes to UK immigration laws meant that Tyson will not be able to travel to the country and has been re-routed to Paris instead.

In a statement, Mr Tyson said: 'I was greatly disappointed when I learned of United Kingdom’s immigration law changes that went into effect December 2012.

'I have been coming to the UK consistently in the past decade so this change is disheartening since it affects my current entry standing.

'I apologise to my fans that were inconvenienced, however, please know I am currently working diligently with the proper authorities to regain access next year for my UK tour.

'I am currently stationed in Paris, attending to press that was scheduled for my visit this week in London.

'I am very much looking forward to talking about my book, Undisputed Truth, and UK tour, and very appreciative of the British press for being so accommodating in the interim.’