Tyson set for capital combat

Mike Tyson stands over former victim Andrew Golota

Mike Tyson's next fight now appears likely to take place on 2 June in Washington.

The former world champion's return fight, scheduled to be against David Izon, has caused numerous problems in terms of a location, with Australia and Africa proposed as venues.

But talks are currently under way that could result in a deal by the end of the week.

"It's a very good possibility," said Jay Larkin, the boxing boss of Showtime, the network which has a television contract with Tyson.

Tyson, whose record stands at 48 wins, three defeats and one no-contest, has not fought since winning in two rounds against Poland's Andre Golota last November.

Sydney setback

The Izon fight had looked set to take place in Sydney.

But there were immigration concerns about the Australian goverment's willingness to allow Tyson - who has served jail terms for rape and assault - into the country.

Germany and Malaysia, other countries that had been touted as possible venues for a Tyson fight, now also appear to have lost out.

It is still hoped that Tyson will fight world champion Lennox Lewis in the next 12 months.

Tyson and Lewis released a statement earlier this year saying they would try to schedule a showdown despite rival television contracts.

But Lewis, who is set to face American Hasim Rahman in South Africa later this month, has said he plans to next fight either Wladimir or Vitali Klitschko next if he keeps his crown.

The Ukranians appear with him in the movie Oceans 11 as part of a fictional world title fight in Las Vegas.