LA Boxing Apologizes To Fans After Mike Tyson Cut Bethesda Visit Short

LA Boxing is apologizing to those who gathered for a at the gym's Bethesda location Sunday.

Tyson left the event, which was scheduled to be an hour long, after about 15 minutes using a back door, according to Ryan Sullivan, a spokesman for LA Boxing.

“We were really happy and grateful Mike was able to show up and spend some time with us, as far as his schedule conflicts or his need to depart or leave, anything like that is out of our hands,” Sullivan said.

Sullivan said he didn't know why Tyson left the event.

In a press release prior to the meet and greet, LA Boxing reported the event was scheduled for 2 p.m. to 3 p.m. and that Tyson would "greet fans, sign autographs and pose for pictures."

Between 200 and 300 people showed up for the event, and the line stretched around the block, Sullivan said. Only about 100 people were able to participate before Tyson left, and many fans were disappointed, Sullivan said.

“It was unfortunate he had to leave early because with the speed with which we were processing it, had it gone for the full hour, we would have been able to get through the vast majority of fans waiting,” Sullivan said.

In an email to members, LA Boxing representatives thanked the champ for stopping by, but they also wrote:

"We are disappointed, and sincerely apologize to any of our family and friends that were unable to meet the Champ at Sunday's Bethesda appearance. LA Boxing made every arrangement, plan and agreement to ensure a quality experience for fans from the LA Boxing community. Unfortunately, the schedule and behavior of our guests is outside of our immediate control. Mr. Tyson's abrupt departure was unexpected, regrettable and unfortunate."

Sullivan said LA Boxing shared the disappointement and frustration with fans. "Whenever you have a guest appearance, you're really on their clock," Sullivan said.