Boxer Mike Tyson has cancelled a planned appearance at Belfast's Waterfront Hall this evening.

The former heavyweight boxing champion was scheduled to appear along with local boxing legend Barry McGuigan tonight at An Evening with Mike Tyson at the Waterfront Hall.

A spokesman for the venue said the event had been called off "due to unforeseen circumstances".

Protests had been expected outside the venue as women’s advocate groups expressed their disgust at the event.

Tyson was jailed for three years in 1993 after being found guilty of the rape of beauty queen Desiree Washington.

Eileen Calder of the Rape Crisis Centre in Belfast criticised McGuigan for agreeing to take part.

“Barry needs to hang his head in shame,” she said.

“I have always been a huge fan of his, I even considered naming one of my children after him. He has done so much great work for charities and integrated education. I can’t believe he has agreed to take part in this.”

Ms Calder said she felt sick when she heard Tyson would be visiting Belfast.

“Believe me, if this was the other way around, he would not even be allowed into the country.

“The United States does not allow convicted rapists in, they are interested in protecting their citizens.

“I would appeal to boxing fans to look beyond his boxing to what he has done — he is a convicted rapist.”

Those who bought £25 tickets for An Evening with Mike Tyson will be able to receive refunds from the Waterfront Hall or Ticketmaster.

However, those who paid for £200 VIP tickets have been advised to contact Jimmy Clyne Promotions.