Convicted rapist Mike Tyson has said sorry for his violent past.

In an exclusive interview with The Argus, the former undisputed world heavyweight champion said he had not heard about protests from women's groups which led to him being banned from the Brighton Centre earlier this month.

But, acknowledging the controversy surrounding his visit to Sussex, he said: "I'm just enjoying my life and I don't want to offend anyone.

"I'm sorry if my past actions have offended anyone but I'm not that person any more."

He added: "I'm just Mike and I am happy to be around.

"I'm not much of a boxing man any more. I am just existing in this world and trying to put boxing behind me.

"But I am a human being and a person so if I can help anyone then I love to."

Tyson, 39, spoke out as he prepares for an amateur boxing show at the private venue of Effingham Park Golf Club in Copthorne, near Crawley, on Friday night where he is the star attraction.

The boxer is one of sport's most controversial figures and among the world's most recognisable faces.

He was convicted of rape in 1992 and served three years in jail. in 1997 he was fined £3 million and banned from boxing for a year after biting a chunk out of boxer Evander Holyfield's ear.

Friday's show was originally to be held at The Brighton Centre but Brighton and Hove City Council cancelled the event after an outcry from women's groups, city councillors and MPs.

Protesters claimed Tyson was not a suitable role model and should not be welcomed to the city.

However, the fighter once dubbed the Baddest Man On The Planet and Iron Mike has been a popular attraction as a speaker at dinner shows and has been speaking to thousands of fans in this country on his recent tour.

Organisers announced they would move the event to the private venue after the Brighton Centre show was cancelled.

Former British heavyweight champion Scott Welch, a coach at Hove Amateur Boxing Club, and Lee Greenwood are promoting the event.

Tyson will share the limelight with a number of amateur boxing bouts. Popular former WBC world heavyweight champion Frank Bruno is also appearing.