Iron Mike Tyson has been named to the 12-member 2011 class for induction into the International Boxing Hall of Fame and Museum. Under the guidance of Cus D'Amato, Tyson won his first 19 professional bouts by knockout, 12 in the first round. In November 1986, Tyson knocked out WBC champion Trevor Berbick for a piece of the heavyweight title, which solidified his place as a champion in the sport. "I am honored," Tyson said. "The sport of boxing has given me so much, and it is truly a blessing to be acknowledged alongside other historical boxing legends because they paved the way for me, as I hope I have inspired others in this great sport."
Knockout architect Julio Cesar Chavez was also named. The three-division champion registered 88 knockouts before retiring five years ago with a professional record of 107-6-2. Chavez, who grew up in an abandoned railroad car with his five sisters and four brothers, was nearly rendered speechless by his selection. Russian-born Kostya Tszyu, a junior welterweight champion, was also selected, along with Mexican trainer Ignacio "Nacho" Beristain and referee Joe Cortez. Sylvester Stallone made the cut for promoting the sport through the success of his Rocky films. Inductees were voted in by members of the Boxing Writers Association of America and a panel of international boxing historians.
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