Foreman: Tyson, but Not King : Boxing: At 46, the heavyweight champion makes it clear that he will not deal with the former champion’s promoter.

As heavyweight champion, elder statesman and America’s favorite couch potato, 46-year-old George Foreman holds the trump card in making real a year-ending, probably career-ending showdown with Mike Tyson.

Foreman made it clear Wednesday in Los Angeles that the card will not be a King.

Using the power of his throne, Foreman said that any fight involving him and Tyson, expected to be released from prison March 25, cannot involve Don King as promoter.

“I spoke with Don King about (fighting) Mike Tyson back in 1988,” Foreman said at a news conference to announce his April 22 defense against Germany’s Axel Schulz at the MGM Grand in Las Vegas.

“Nothing happened, nothing happened. Then I spoke to him in ’90. Nothing happened. Then, in ’91. Nothing happened. Just a note on my door. I’m not going through that again.”

Reached by phone Wednesday, King would not comment on Foreman’s conditions.

“I wouldn’t even speculate on that,” King said. “That doesn’t even warrant an if . Let him go do his thing. I won’t respond to it. I love the man. I think he’s a great, great guy.”

Foreman, who makes most of his own business decisions, admitted a fight with Tyson is probably inevitable, should he defeat Schulz.

He also said he did not expect Tyson to cut all ties with King.

“If Don King chooses to manage Tyson, fine,” Foreman said. “If he chooses to be his friend and adviser, great, but he cannot promote, or throw obstacles in the promotion with George Foreman.”