Miracle celebrate Tyson 'chomp'

Fort Myers Miracle Professional Baseball takes pride on their commitment to the community and running a first class organization; however on June 28 the Miracle will become "ear-responsible".

The date marks the 10-year anniversary of the chomp heard around the world.

June 28, 1997, Mike Tyson against Evander Holyfield in a dream re-match for the heavyweight championship of the world. The fight began conventionally enough and ended in chaos. With mere seconds left in the third round, Tyson spits out his mouthpiece and inexplicably crunches down on Holyfield's ear biting off a chunk and leaving it on the mat. It was a bad bite for boxing.

The Miracle will commemorate the decade anniversary of the "Bite Fight", giving away plastic ears to the first 1,000 fans in attendance for the 7:05 p.m. game.

Decorating stations will allow fans to add their own personal touch to their ear of scorn. Each fan will also get the opportunity to taste an ear. (Consumption of human ears is not allowed at Hammond Stadium, so tasty, crispy elephant ears will be substituted).

A pre-game spelling bee (no words consisting of more than four letters will be allowed); Christmas carol sing-a-long contest and an on-site facial tattoo artist are all part of this biting tribute to "Iron Mike".

The Miracle has invited the heavyweight chomp to throw out the first pitch. Tyson's camp is all ears to any suggestions the Miracle have presented.

Miracle general manager Steve Gliner has one request if boxing's version of Dracula is in attendance.

"Now ear this! For the protection of our players and the St. Lucie Mets, each batting helmet will have protective ear flaps," said Gliner.

Tickets for this "lobe-blow" remembrance may be purchased at the Miracle's Hammond Stadium office. Fans may also order online at www.miraclebaseball.com or by calling (239) 768-4210.