Holyfield forgives Tyson for biting his ears

Jet, Jan 26, 1998

Heavyweight boxing champion Evander Holyfield said at a news conference in Hamlin Germany, he's forgiven Mike Tyson for biting his ears and would not rule out fighting him again, says the Boston Globe.

"If time permits," was the WBA and IBF heavyweight champion's response about a possible rematch with Tyson.

Tyson bit off a piece of Holyfield's right ear and then bit his left ear in the third round of a title rematch on June 28, 1997, and was disqualified.

Holyfield said all people make mistakes and should be given the opportunity to redeem themselves.

"It's behind me," Holyfield said of the incident.

Holyfield said he planned to retire in 1999 or 2000.