Mike Tyson, a heavyweight champion who has faced many opponents in the ring, is now rallying for a cause that extends beyond the boxing mat.
With a direct appeal to President Donald Trump, Tyson has partnered with a notable group of athletes and entertainers, advocating for significant cannabis reform. Their joint initiative includes a letter sent to the White House, where they urged Trump to advocate for the removal of marijuana from the Schedule I drug classification.
“People continue to serve lengthy federal sentences for conduct that is now legal in most states – which makes their continued incarceration not only cruel but absurd,” reads their letter.
The message further highlights the inaction of former President Biden as an opportunity for Trump to take a leadership stance on the issue.
Momentum from the Sports Community
Tyson is joined by a formidable cohort, including NBA star Kevin Durant, NFL legends Dez Bryant and Antonio Brown, former NBA MVP Allen Iverson, boxing icon Roy Jones Jr., and Heisman Trophy winner Ricky Williams. Together, they convey a unified message that the current federal stance is outdated.
Mike Tyson, Kevin Durant, other sports stars urge Trump to enact cannabis reform in White House letter https://t.co/46BtnitU7q
— Fox News (@FoxNews) June 27, 2025
The athletes are advocating not just for the release of individuals incarcerated for marijuana-related offenses but are also calling for marijuana to be reclassified from a Schedule I to a Schedule III substance. They emphasize in a subsequent letter that this change would bring federal law in line with state regulations, enhance medical research opportunities, and stimulate economic growth. “Marijuana’s current classification as a Schedule I substance is scientifically outdated, economically detrimental, and at odds with modern medical understanding,” they argue.
This initiative showcases Tyson’s consistent support for cannabis, as he has openly used and endorsed it throughout his career, even establishing his own cannabis business. However, this letter signifies a more organized attempt to influence policy by leveraging his voice in the political arena.
With a growing acceptance of legalization across the United States and numerous states altering their laws, Tyson and his fellow advocates feel the time for impactful federal action has arrived. Their high-profile push adds significant momentum to an essential dialogue, though it remains to be seen how President Trump will respond.
