By Mark Vester
It was reported in The Arizona Republic, that former WBO heavyweight champion Tommy Morrison is going to take the first step towards obtaining an Arizona boxing license to fight on a January 19 card in Phoenix. Morrison has not fought in the United States since testing positive for HIV in 1996.
The first step is to undergo blood tests to determine if Morrison is indeed HIV positive. Morrison claims that he is not HIV positive and was given a "false" positive in 1996. The former wife of Morrison has publicly stated that he is indeed HIV positive and has been tested several times, all tests she claims have come back positive. Morrison shoots down the claims of his ex-wife by stating that they engaged in unprotected sex on numerous occasions and she has never tested positive for HIV, statements which his wife has confirmed.
Phoenix boxing promoter Peter McKinn, who works for Top Rank, advised John Montano of the Arizona State Boxing Commission of the news on Sunday.
McKinn said that Morrison already has tested negative at least three times. McKinn even videotaped the last test taken by Morrison in early December.
Montano said that Morrison obtaining a license will not be easy, he wants to personally witness Morrison undergo a blood test, and even wants to watch the fighter, who turns 38 on Tuesday, work out in the gym. Morrison would also have to pass all of the required medical exams. He wants Morrison to undergo blood work this week at a Phoenix lab.
"They already know, everybody knows, that for me to accept anything as far as blood work, I have to see the blood drawn," Montano said.
McKinn told the paper that Morrison will not have any trouble finding an opponent to fight. He has a list of about 16 fighters that want to meet Morrison on January 19.