Tyson says he is now a reformed character who 'lives like a monk'

American boxing legend Mike Tyson has insisted that his tearaway days of drink, drugs and girls are all behind him as he 'lives like a monk' now, according to reports.

According to the Mirror, the controversial former World Heavyweight champion became as famous for his battles outside of the ring as his fights inside the ropes.

In Las Vegas in November 1986, at the age of just 20, Tyson became the youngest ever world heavyweight champion when he shocked the world by beating the equally colourful Trevor Berbick inside two rounds, the report said.

A conviction for rape and numerous assault charges, as well as being disqualified for biting his bitter rival Evander Holyfield's ear during their title fight, have tarnished his reputation in the mind of many, though, the report added.

Tyson said that he travels all around the world now and talks to interesting people and to him it is like living a monastic lifestyle, like being a monk living in his little shrine because he is living a magnanimous life now.