Tyson denied license to box in Texas

AUSTIN, TEXAS - Mike Tyson&#39;s application to box in Texas was denied Friday, the latest setback in the former heavyweight champion&#39;s attempt to get a sanctioned bout against Lennox Lewis. <br> <br> Georgia officials, meanwhile, have granted Tyson&#39;s application to fight there. However, the state also requires a promoter&#39;s license and a show permit, neither of which has been granted. <br> <br> Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation Executive Director Bill Kuntz said his decision was based on Tyson&#39;s history in the ring and disciplinary action by other states. He noted Tyson&#39;s past license suspensions in Nevada and Michigan. <br> <br> ``I made my decision to deny Mr. Tyson a license based on his past behavior in the ring, his unwillingness to follow the basic rules and laws of boxing, and our mandate to regulate boxing in the public interest,&#39;&#39; Kuntz said. <br> <br> Tyson has refused pre-fight drug tests, ignored referees and assaulted ringside law enforcement officials during the last five years, Kuntz said. <br> <br> Hector Uribe, Tyson&#39;s attorney in Austin, requested an appeal hearing. <br> <br> Former heavyweight champ George Foreman, who lives in Houston, said Tyson should have been granted a license. <br> <br> ``He needs help, he doesn&#39;t need rejection anymore,&#39;&#39; Foreman told a Houston television station. ``It&#39;s gotten political, and that&#39;s the one thing I hate.&#39;&#39;