Second only to “Sankofa”, “Mandingo” is a classic film on the brutality of African
slavery in America. In a bloody scene, star Ken Norton is forced to maul a fellow slave as
white masters and mistresses cheer. It is a haunting scene; from which ghosts spooked
me as I watched Mike Tyson chew on Evander Holyfield. Centuries later, Black men still
shed each others’ blood for show.

Perhaps now, after Mike has publicly mauled a champion, in view of millions, his
unconditional defenders will consider that he may have raped a groupie, late one night,
when they were alone in his hotel room. Now that he has maimed a stronger man, before
the world, they will consider that he may have brutalized his ex-wife, and other weaker
persons, in private. We all display our best behavior in public. What is Mike’s worst?

I have never been a fan of Evander. Primarily because his eurocentric religion causes him
to slander Islam. I loathe all Black people who worship white Gods. But, I do respect
Evander as a person. I admire his composure, kindness, and superior boxing skills. Like
Mike, Evander once bit an opponent on the shoulder during a formal fight. But, unlike
Mike, Evander has grown up.

Clearly, Mike assaulted Evander. Mike weakly panicked and cowardly cheated. Yet,
Mike has sincerely apologized, and he will be severely punished for his antics. But, to
ban Mike forever, for his brutality, from a sport that has been forever brutal, would be
hypocritical and excessive.

Long ago, sports ceased to be ethical athletics. Sports are ruthless capitalist businesses.
Most athletes are not role models. They are GROSSLY overpaid, amoral, glorified
slaves. A revenge match between Mike and Evander is INEVITABLE. Money talks.
Morals walk.

ONLY Mike is to blame for his juvenile machismo and maniacal violence. All adults are
responsible for their own actions. Mike is an adult. He is also very rich and celebrated.
Like Evander, Mike must begin acting his age.

My mom, Laura Delores Strong Banks, is my best friend, my sheroe, and my idol. I
respect and love her more than anyone else in the world. She has always told me, “Adults
make choices and handle the consequences.” Mike chose to “do an O. J.” in the ring.
Like O. J., he must now pay. As Johnnie Cochran might say, “Since the hunk of ear was
spit, they must NOT acquit”.
 

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