Bad Intentions: The Mike Tyson Story

Born and raised in a Brooklyn ghetto, then sent to a reform school where he learned the rudiments of boxing, Tyson at age 14 became the protege of legendary manager Cus D'Amato, who offered training in fisticuffs and social behavior. The former training succeeded, as D'Amato predicted, in Tyson's becoming the world heavyweight champion; the latter, according to ABC sports producer Heller ( In This Corner ), has proven less satisfactory. Heller traces the champion's meteoric rise to the top, examining the role various boxing associations have played in Tyson's life. Also discussed are individuals important in Tyson's history, including Don King, his current mentor, and ex-wife Robin Givens and her mother, whose alleged venality Heller tends to soft-pedal. The result is a thorough, rather bland book. Photos not seen by PW. (Sept.)