Wolverhampton prepares for Tyson

Over 150 people were on hand for the official promotional event at the Cross Guns, ahead for the big night at Wolverhampton Civic Hall on November 4.

Ticket sales have already broken Civic records for speed, for 'An Audience With' one of the most controversial and instantly recognisable boxing figures in the world.

And the former heavyweight champion of the world was the name on everyone's lips at the Cross Guns.

A balloon launch containing VIP tickets for the Civic show kicked off the afternoon, and there was also live music and a Tyson memorabilia exhibition.

Joining fight fans for the day were boxers Don Broadhurst, Steve Saville, Dean Harrison, Wolverhampton's former British champion Tony Wilson and local legend Nigel 'Raffo' Rafferty.

Broadhurst, Birmingham's reigning Commonwealth super flyweight champion, said: "Mike is an idol of mine, watching him growing up was one of the things that got me into boxing in the first place."

Saville, Wednesfield's reigning Midland lightweight champion, said: "I would be like a kid again meeting Mike. He is one of the true legends of boxing."

Harrison, the Scotlands' British light-welterweight title contender, said: "Mike is up there with the best heavyweight boxers in history."

Wolverhampton's Rafferty, who had 104 fights over a storied 12-year professional career, said: "He was my hero, because I was a cruiserweight. Mike is a real one-off."

Matthew Twardun and Joe Stokes were among fans on the day.

Mr Twardun, 33, a heating engineer from Mercia Drive, Perton, said: "It's like royalty having Mike here."

Mr Stokes, 67, retired, of Brooklands Avenue, Great Wyrley, said: "It has been a great day, can't fault it, and I am really looking forward to the night."

To buy tickets for Tyson's big night at the Civic, call the box office on 0870 320 7000.

VIP tickets adding a meet, greet and personal photo with the man himself, are also available through Jimmy Clyne Promotions on 01376 331 982.