Mike Tyson
Mike Tyson bit part of Evander Holyfield's ear off during their infamous boxing match in 1997.

A Footlocker advert showing former heavyweight champion Mike Tyson reuniting old rival Evander Holyfield with his ear has gone viral online.

The one-minute promo is part of the sportswear giant's The Year of Greatness 2013 advertising campaign.

In the commercial, Cavaliers star Kyrie Irving reflects on how sports icons like Mike Tyson, Dennis Rodman and Brett Favre have restored the cosmic balance of the universe.

Tyson is seen turning up at Holyfield's home and handing him his ear in a gift box.

He also apologises for biting part of his ear off - a reference to an infamous incident during a fight between the pair in 1997- and explains that he has kept Holyfield's ear in formaldehyde.

Tyson was disqualified by referee Mills Lane for biting his opponent twice in the high-profile match back at the MGM Grand in Las Vegas.

Another scene in the commercial shows former NBA star Dennis Rodman helping to make the world a better place by booking a one way plane ticket to North Korea. Passengers and airport staff are seen celebrating his departure.

The advert has racked up over 130,000 views on YouTube, but drawn mixed reviews.

"This is just creepy. The tyson / holyfield ear incident was horrific and to make fun of that is in really bad taste," one unimpressed viewer said.

Another wrote: "Think it's a great testament of character that people can set aside differences and laugh at the stupid things they have done," another viewer said.

"Also Tyson has done a good job changing who he is, and they probably all got paid a bunch of money. Love the commercial thanks."