Mike Tyson eyes Jamie Foxx in movie about ex-champ

TORONTO — Mike Tyson says he’s met with Oscar-winning actor Jamie Foxx about collaborating on a possible biopic on his life.

“Me and Jamie Foxx have been talking and he’s willing to take that role and portray me as Mike Tyson, doing my life story,” the former heavyweight boxing champion said Friday during a conference call to promote an upcoming Toronto date for his one-man show, “Mike Tyson: Undisputed Truth.” “I think he’s splendid because he’s really up to par. I think he would do a magnificent job.”

Further brainstorming of the project will “happen very shortly,” he added.

“I saw him the other night and we discussed it,” Tyson said. “He doesn’t have the physicality but he will. He’s able to … get bulky, so he’s capable of doing it in the future.”

Tyson will bring his solo production to Toronto’s Air Canada Centre on Sept. 10. Tickets go on sale July 31.

In the 90-minute show, he gives an unvarnished account of the highs and lows of his life — from his troubled upbringing in Brooklyn and famed boxing career, to his time in prison and addiction issues.

Oscar-nominated filmmaker Spike Lee directed the stage show, which has already run on Broadway and across the United States. He also turned it into an HBO special that aired last November.

Tyson’s wife, Kiki, wrote the script that includes room for ad-libbing.

“I don’t do shows for any kind of therapy,” said Tyson. “I do it because I enjoy doing it, and I do it because it’s art. It’s changed me a great deal because I can’t walk 10 minutes without anybody asking me when the next show is going to appear.”

Now 48 and retired from the ring, Tyson insisted he’s not the same intimidating guy he was when he was the youngest heavyweight boxing champion of the world: “Not even a little bit. That guy doesn’t even exist no more.”

Indeed, the Tyson of today is sober and seemingly mellow, with self-deprecating bits in the “Hangover” movies and a new role as boxing promoter with Iron Mike Productions. Besides his stage show, he’s also opened up about his life in the 2008 documentary “Tyson” and in an autobiography published last November.

“Right now, I’m just living life day by day — black, broke and ugly,” laughed Tyson, who declared bankruptcy in 2003 and has a tattoo on his face. “I’m just trying to survive, you know?”

Talk to us

> Give us your news tips.

> Send us a letter to the editor.

> More Herald contact information.

More in Life

AquaSox General Manager Danny Tetzlaff keeps the whole circus running. (File photo)
Part baseball, part circus: What goes into a game at Funko Field?

It takes a small army of employees to make sure fans have a great time watching the Everett AquaSox.

Arlo Frostad, 7, and his twin brother Harrison Frostad, walk through the fields of Roozengaarde outside of Mount Vernon, Washington during the Skagit Valley Tulip Festival on April 10, 2025. (Will Geschke / The Herald)
Stop and smell the flowers at Skagit Valley Tulip Festival

The largest tulip festival in North America features five gardens and runs through April.

Image from Pexels.com
Top 3 Cannabis Shops You’ll Love in Snohomish County

Looking for quality products and good energy? Let’s discover the top spots.

The 2025 Lexus TX 350 is a three-row luxury SUV. It’s offered in Base, Premium, Luxury, and F Sport Handling grades (Provided by Lexus).
2025 Lexus TX 350 welcomes new F Sport Handling model

Unique exterior highlights, a glass roof and sport-tuned suspension are among the attractions.

Hybrid Touring Photo Provided by Subaru U.S. Media Center
2025 Subaru Forester Hybrid Increases Fuel Economy And Range

Sixth-Generation Model Receives Complete Refresh

Image from Canva.com
Chic & unique: The top 3 boutiques in Snohomish County you need to visit

From trendy finds to timeless pieces, discover the hidden gems that are redefining local fashion.

Image from Canva.com
Find your next favorite read in Snohomish County

Explore three of the finest bookshops where stories and community come together

Image from Canva.com
Say “I Do” to these stunning wedding venues

From rustic barns to elegant halls, discover where love stories in Snohomish County begin.

Grayson Bed and Breakfast (Photo courtesy of HD Estates and Grayson Bed and Breakfast)
The Grayson Bed and Breakfast: Where strangers become friends

A cozy retreat with scenic views and pet-friendly amenities just two miles from downtown Monroe.

Image from Prince Life Photography website.
Light, lens & love: These photographers bring the magic

Want to see who’s turning everyday moments into jaw-dropping memories? Let’s find out.

Small SUV Provides Big Time Value. Photo Provided by Chevrolet Newsroom
2025 Chevy Trax Activ Delivers Beyond Expectations

Sub-Compact SUV Surprises With Value And Features

Hai Viet Hong, center, performs with the Huong Viet Performing Arts Group during The Wendt Mayor’s Arts Awards on Thursday, April 10 in Everett, Washington. (Will Geschke / The Herald)
Everett artists celebrated with The Wendt Mayor’s Arts Awards

Award recipients included a former City Council member and the former publisher of My Everett News.

Support local journalism

If you value local news, make a gift now to support the trusted journalism you get in The Daily Herald. Donations processed in this system are not tax deductible.