Animal Planet has announced it has ordered Taking on Tyson, a new reality series starring heavyweight boxer Mike Tyson as he takes viewers inside the world of competitive pigeon racing.

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The tentatively-titled reality series is currently slated to film this spring in New York City and debut in early 2011.

"I'm honored to be a part of this monumental show on Animal Planet," said Tyson.

"I feel a great pride acting as an official representative for all the pigeon fancier's out there. I want people to see why we love these birds. It feels good returning to the rooftops of the city where it all started for me - New York."

Taking on Tyson will follow the former heavyweight champion and novice pigeon racer as he puts his birds head-to-head against those owned by other competitive racers.

Aiding Tyson in his quest for the pigeon-racing crown will be his trainer Vinnie Torre, caretakers the Roman Brothers and promoter/manager Mario Costa.

"Tyson's passion for his pigeons takes my breath away," said Animal Planet president Marjorie Kaplan.

"For years, he has been inspired by these birds that he feels have the biggest heart' in the animal kingdom. Taking on Tyson peels back new layers of the remarkable persona and deep humanity of Mike Tyson while also showing us a whole world we never knew existed right on the rooftops of New York City."

Taking on Tyson is being produced by Touch Productions in association with Tyrannic Productions for Animal Planet.
About The Author: Christopher Rocchio
Christopher Rocchio is an entertainment reporter for Reality TV World and has covered the reality TV genre for several years.