“Contrary to popular belief, Tyson was not removed because of his troubles with the law (which wouldn’t occur until a year after the changeover), but because his contract expired. Since he had lost the title to James “Buster” Douglas by that point, Nintendo didn’t try to work out a new contract with him.” (from the wikipedia entry, list of punch-out!! boxers.)

oh man, we all thought it was the rape charge! turns out tyson’s just a loser nintendo wanted nothing to do with! but are video games done mocking tyson? of course not. check this out from the wikipedia entry on mike tyson:

In the Japanese version Street Fighter II series, Balrog is called Mike Bison, as a parody of Mike Tyson. Capcom switched the name for the US version in order to avoid a potential lawsuit from Mike Tyson. In Street Fighter Alpha 3, however, one of Balrog’s victory phrases is “If you fight me like that again I’ll have to bite your ear off!”

that’s right! a not-so subtle jab at tyson’s penchant for biting off a mans ear in the middle of a bout! capcom, you always had my love, but you’ve finally earned my respect. and after 16 years of controversy & popular opinion, i’m finally ready to say: i agree! mike tyson, you’re a real jerk!