Excessive retaliation

The much awaited Tyson-Holyfield boxing encounter has come and gone. Its result has already become the talk of the town in the world of boxing. That encounter, which I watched, wasn't a blessing to supporters of both heavyweights and many of the fans were disappointed. As far as boxing is concerned, I do not know bigotry. I only watch for the sake of exciting entertainment and nothing else. But I'll certainly take sides whenever my countrymen are involved due to human nature.

Nevertheless, I would like to share my observations on the 1996 and 1997 encounters. Tyson always thanks God after winning a fight by saying Allahu Akbar. Holyfield, on the other hand, usually cites the name of the Lord Jesus Christ as the secret power behind his success.

Second, during the June 29 bout, I observed a serious head butt against Tyson for which Holyfield was unpunished by either the referee or the panelists. In fact, Holyfield used this strategy in the fight to head butt delicate organs near Tyson's eyes. Tyson must honestly blame himself for retaliating in a brutal way. Tyson confessed and apologized for the error. Boxing officials, Holyfield and his supporters should accept the apology as a goodwill gesture. If Tyson is forgiven, his staggering US$30 million cheque should not be withheld, and further punishment abrogated.

Both fighters hoped to win a whopping $30 million which, in my country, is a handsome industrial investment. They're therefore not unaware of the physical risk that is involved. I support President Clinton's statement: "... it was a good fight. But, I was horrified by it" as appeared in The Jakarta Post (July 2).

BUHARI ABDU

Jakarta