By Cleo Fraser
Controversial former world heavyweight boxing champion Mike Tyson is planning to visit New Zealand later this year, but he could be blocked from entering the country due to a previous rape conviction.
Tyson will "peel back layers of tragedy and public turmoil while unfolding his tale of triumph and survival" when he speaks at the Day of Champions on November 15 in Auckland, the event's official website says.
"He will openly discuss his greatest victories and controversies both in and out of the ring."
Other motivational speakers and business people will speak at the event which will also be held in Brisbane, Sydney, Melbourne, Adelaide and Perth.
The announcement sparked debate on online boxing forums as to whether Tyson will be allowed to enter New Zealand as he was convicted of raping an 18-year-old woman in the US in the 1990s.
"Won't immigration have something to say about this?" TCboxa said on Eastsideboxing.com.
A statement from Immigration New Zealand says Tyson will have to apply for a visa to enter New Zealand and disclose any past convictions.
"There is never a guarantee that any visa application will be approved," the statement said.
"All visa applications are considered on their individual circumstances and against immigration instructions, including requirements to be of good character."
The Immigration Act 2009 allows for discretion to be exercised in certain circumstances.
Tyson, who has a distinctive tattoo on the left side of his face which he claims is Maori, was sentenced to six years in prison but served three.
NZN