A 3-foot-6-inch plaster statue of a 19th century prizefighting icon has been stolen from a Royal Oak, Mich., tavern, the bar's owner said.

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Bill Roberts, who owns the Town Tavern, said the 40 pound statue of John L. Sullivan has been missing from the suburban Detroit bar since Jan. 19, WDIV-TV Detroit reported Wednesday.

"He was last seen about midnight," Roberts told The (Royal Oak) Daily Tribune. "Then the managers got busy and somehow he slipped out the front door. We are so bummed. We'd like it back and there will be no questions asked. We'll even buy them dinner for the ransom."

Police said they will not file charges against the thieves if the statue is returned.

"The statue probably isn't worth much but it is unique and has significant sentimental value to the owner," said police Lt. Corrigan O'Donohue. "We believe it may have been taken as a prank and at this time we are only seeking the safe return of the statue."