Fury shot to prominence after claiming the heavyweight world titles off Wladimir Klitschko at the end of 2015, but has courted controversy ever since for the nature of some of his remarks and personal beliefs.

But the 27-year-old has been defended by Tyson, who is clearly proud that the current heavyweight champion of the world carries his name.

Football Hamburg player who pushed a fan gets five-game ban, fine 20 MINUTES AGO

Tyson added that, whatever Fury’s beliefs, his exploits in the ring would serve as inspiration to a lot of people.

“I’m just happy he was the champ,” Tyson said. “You can say what you want about Tyson Fury, make fun of him, but there’s one guy in the US named Michael Gerard Tyson who’s so proud he has my name.

“We’re all laughing at him, laughing about him, but I’m on an ego trip. I’m sky high.

“The heavyweight champion of the world got my name. He is the best heavyweight champion of the world since myself.

“He is the man, I don’t care what anybody says.”

Mike Tyson Image credit: AFP

On the less savoury side of Fury’s personality, Tyson – who was not shy of controversy himself during his career – was blunt.

“I know this is going to sound ignorant, he can say what he wants to say,” he added.

“You know who are going to look up to him? The people who never thought they had a chance in their life.

“Are you nuts? Are you out of your mind? People who want to be junkies, they’re going to look up to him. I’m so proud of him, man.”

Tyson also clarified that he had suffered no long-term harm from the hoverboard fall that recently became a social media sensation.

The 49-year-old says he learned that the gadgets are only for young people.

“They should be illegal to anybody over the age of 18,” he said. “My daughter, however, could play a competitive game of tennis riding it.

“My kids, as soon as they get out of bed, they roll on them into the bathroom. They’ve got parking spots for them. It’s the future.”

Premier League Solskjaer criticises England for calling up Greenwood 42 MINUTES AGO