One of the greatest fighters to ever step into the ring is on the Central Coast

Evander Holyfield, nicknamed the real deal, is touring churches in Monterey County this weekend.

The four-time world heavyweight champion and Olympian is hoping to inspire people with his message of faith and perseverance. The fighter turned inspirational speaker hopes to also help kids going through tough times by talking about his life experiences, both good and bad.

KION’s Paul Dudley sat down with Holyfield Saturday and ask him what advice he has for young people in Salinas and across the Central Coast who are often tempted with the idea of joining a gang.

“You’ve got to tell people that the first thing you want to do is honor the parents,” said Holyfield. “It starts at home. Success starts at home and failure starts at home.”

The former champ also talked about how important forgiveness is. He even said he has forgiven fellow boxer Mike Tyson who bit Holyfield’s ear in a fight on June 28, 1997.

“You can forgive Tyson too?” asked Dudley. “Of course, of course,” said Tyson. I never think that there is something I couldn’t forgive anyone for, but life is also about prevention too. You’ve got to prevent certain things. Some things don’t have to happen.”

On Sunday, Holyfield will be at the Compass Church in Salinas. There are two services. One at 9 a.m. and another at 10 a.m. All are welcome.