Mike Tyson's legal team have accused streetwear brand Supreme of breaching an agreement after removing an Israeli flag from a remake of a vintage designed hoodie featuring the former boxer.
The hoodie, which was produced in collaboration with designer Martine Rose, was pulled from sale earlier this week after fans noticed the change.
The original design featured an image of Tyson standing against a backdrop of a globe, featuring a number of flags, including Israel's. In the design produced by Supreme and Rose, the Israeli flag was replaced with that of Palestine.
“Mike Tyson collaborated with Supreme and Martine Rose on a collection honoring his boxing legacy. His team approved artwork inspired by his iconic Jeff Hamilton jacket solely to celebrate boxing history," read a statement shared with Rolling Stone by Tyson's legal team.
“Without authorization, Supreme altered the approved design, embroiling Mr. Tyson in an unrelated political crisis. This modification constitutes a material breach of contract. With Supreme ignoring repeated demands, Mr. Tyson’s legal counsel will take all necessary action to protect his name, likeness, and legacy.”
This is not the first time that Tyson has caused controversy in relation to Israel.
In November 2023, photos surfaced on the internet showing the former heavyweight champion attending a Friends of the Israeli Defense Forces fundraising event in Florida. The fundraiser, which raised $10 million for the Israeli army, took place in the early weeks of Israel's genocidal war on Gaza.
Amid social media backlash over the move, Tyson released a statement denying that he had made any donations.
"I want to clarify the recent portrayal of an event I attended," Tyson said in a statement at the time. "Invited for a casual evening out by a friend, I was unaware of the arranged fundraiser and no donations were made by me or on my behalf."